On Wednesday, February 9, 2022 at 5:35 a.m., Jefferson County Detention deputies found inmate Melissa Chavez, DOB 5/17/78, unresponsive in her cell. Staff immediately attempted lifesaving measures, but Chavez was pronounced deceased on scene by medical personnel.
Chavez was arrested by Lakewood Police on February 6, 2022 and booked into the Jeffco Jail on charges of 1st Degree Aggravated Motor Vehicle Theft, Criminal Possession of a Financial Transaction Device and outstanding warrants.
The First Judicial District Law Enforcement Critical Incident Response Team (CIRT) is investigating the death. The Coroner’s Office will determine the exact cause and manner of death.
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