Inmate in Smith County Found Dead in Jail Cell

Texas Rangers are investigating after an inmate was found dead in his jail cell early Monday morning. Carlos Jose Hernandez Jr., was found hanging from the shower inside the side cell. Hernandez was placed in a side cell because he was on suicide watch following concerning answers to questions while he was being booked into jail. Hernandez, 21, from Troup, TX was arrested and booked early Sunday morning 6/11/17. According to the Smith County Court Records Inquiry, Hernandez was charged with, possession of a controlled substance, possession of marijuana, and possession or delivery of drug paraphernalia. His bond was set at $8,500 but was unable to bond out due to an Immigration Customs Enforcement hold.   According to Larry Smith the Smith County Sheriff, the observation logs and camera footage confirm that the side cell checks performed followed protocol. Carlos Jose Hernandez Jr's autopsy will be performed at the Southwestern Institute of Forensic Science in Dallas. No further information is available until the Texas Rangers complete their investigation.