Kansas inmate found dead after pleading guilty to rape, child exploitation
WASHINGTON, Kan. (KCTV) - A Kansas inmate is believed to have taken his own life after pleading guilty to rape and the sexual exploitation of a child.
The Washington County, Kansas, Sheriff’s Office says that around 6:05 a.m. on Saturday, May 17, Corrections Officers discovered inmate Kyle E. Mashburn, 42, unresponsive in his cell. Life-saving efforts were taken as EMS responded, however, he was pronounced deceased.
Investigators noted that preliminary evidence indicates that Mashburn may have taken his own life as he awaited sentencing. He previously pleaded guilty to rape and child sexual exploitation. A sentence of nearly 25 years in prison had been recommended.
Law enforcement officials indicated that the Kansas Bureau of Investigation has responded to determine the circumstances of Mashburn’s death. An autopsy is expected to be conducted as the investigation into his death remains ongoing.
No further information has been released.
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