Prosecutor seeks special grand jury to probe inmate's death

A prosecutor called for a special grand jury to be convened in the case of a mentally ill inmate who died after being jailed on charges of stealing $5 worth of junk food.

Portsmouth Commonwealth's Attorney Stephanie Morales said she filed a motion Wednesday seeking a special grand jury in the death of 24-year-old Jamycheal Mitchell. Morales didn't provide details about what prompted her request and said she cannot say what specifically she wants the special grand jury to investigate.

A judge must approve the request, which comes nearly a year after state police launched a criminal investigation. Morales said in March that she asked state police to investigate "new allegations" made in the case, but declined to elaborate. She said Wednesday that state police's probe into those allegations is ongoing.

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