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Eric Nelson died a tragic and unfortunate death. My heart goes out to his family, friends and the entire Bogalusa community.

Because of the circumstances of his death, I conducted a thorough review of the facts surrounding his arrest. I reviewed a special death investigation report by the Louisiana State Police. I then reviewed the hospital records, autopsy report, videos and other materials regarding his death. I then engaged the Jefferson Parish Coroner’s office to review the St. Tammany Parish Coroner’s autopsy report. Finally, I presented the case to a Washington Parish Grand Jury on January 17, 2023.

I reviewed every relative criminal charge to this case and determined that the evidence does not meet the standard needed for criminal prosecution. Based on all the information known to me involving the death of Eric Nelson while in police custody, no criminal charges will be brought at this time against law enforcement personnel involved in the incident on December 19, 2021.

My decision is based on the presently available information and I remain open to review any additional new information presented to me. My decision is independent of any current or future administrative actions by law enforcement or civil litigation.

The Louisiana State Police report and other materials in a redacted form will be made available on my website at https://www.DAMontgomery.org/Eric-Nelson on Monday, January 23, 2023.