The U.S. Justice Department is stepping in to help the city of Jackson, Mississippi, revamp its policies for performing next-of-kin death notifications after seven men were buried in unmarked graves without their families’ knowledge. At least three of those men were Black, raising concerns about potential civil rights violations. Federal officials are working to ensure that proper notification procedures are in place to provide families with transparency and the opportunity to make decisions about their loved ones’ burials. Assistant Attorney General Kristen Clarke emphasized the importance of delivering death notifications in a timely and trauma-informed manner that complies with federal civil rights laws.
The Civil Rights Division and the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of Mississippi will be examining the Jackson Police Department’s policies on death notifications and providing recommendations for training and improvements. Additionally, they will offer guidance on locating next-of-kin to the Hinds County Coroner’s Office. Families have expressed outrage at learning of their loved ones’ deaths through news reports rather than from officials, prompting calls for a federal investigation into the mishandled burials. Civil rights attorney Ben Crump, who represents some of the families, has been vocal in demanding accountability and justice for those affected by the botched burials.
The spotlight on burials near the Hinds County Penal Farm in Raymond, Mississippi, intensified following the discovery of Dexter Wade’s body in August. Wade, who died after being struck by an off-duty Jackson Police Department officer, was buried without his family’s knowledge. It wasn’t until late August that his mother learned of his death and burial, sparking outrage and calls for reform. Wade’s body was exhumed in November, and an independent autopsy revealed details that had been kept from his family, including the presence of his state identification card and other personal belongings. A proper funeral was eventually held for Wade, attended by over 200 people, including prominent figures like U.S. Rep. Bennie Thompson and the Rev. Al Sharpton.
The assistance provided by the federal government does not imply any wrongdoing on the part of the Jackson Police Department or the Hinds County Coroner’s Office, according to the Civil Rights Division’s announcement. Jackson Mayor Chokwe Antar Lumumba welcomed the federal intervention, stating that local agencies are open to working with federal officials to address any deficiencies in their procedures. The involvement of the Justice Department serves as a way to ensure that future death notifications are handled appropriately and in accordance with civil rights laws. The community continues to seek answers and accountability for the mishandled burials, with advocates like Ben Crump pushing for transparency and justice for the affected families.
