Boston Authorities have identified 32-year-old Shacoby Kenny as the inmate who died Sunday night at the Suffolk County House of Correction, commonly known as South Bay, with multiple investigations now underway.
Boston, Mass. — The Suffolk County Sheriff’s Office said Shacoby Kenny, 32, of Boston, died after an incident inside the facility. The Sheriff’s Office and the Boston Police Department have both opened investigations into the circumstances surrounding his death, and the Suffolk County District Attorney’s Office has said it is aware of the incident while internal and external reviews proceed.
What officials say happened
According to an official statement, custody staff reported that Kenny began displaying erratic behavior inside his housing unit on March 4 and allegedly physically attacked several officers. Officials said he continued behaving unpredictably, running inside the unit and attempting to avoid officers before he was detained.
The Sheriff’s Office said that after being taken into custody, Kenny became unresponsive. On-site medical staff began emergency care, and Boston EMS transported him to a local hospital, where he later died.
Conflicting accounts being reviewed
While the Sheriff’s Office described the incident as stemming from Kenny’s behavior and a struggle with officers, other inmates have alleged that Kenny was repeatedly struck by correctional staff before he became unresponsive. Those claims have not been confirmed, and investigators are examining the accounts as part of the ongoing review.
Custody status and pending charges
The report states Kenny had been held at the Suffolk County Jail and House of Correction since February 2025. His pending charges included assault and battery on a police officer, assault and battery on a person over 65, and assault with a dangerous weapon. The information provided also notes he had previously spent time at Bridgewater State Hospital in July.
What happens next
Officials said no additional details have been released and no staff members have been publicly named in connection with the case. The Sheriff’s Office indicated further information would be shared after the review is completed.
