HARFORD COUNTY, Md. — Authorities have reported the death of an inmate at the Harford County Detention Center after several emergency hospital admissions linked to cardiac issues.
George Kenney, who was 69 years old at the time, was admitted to the detention center on November 1 to serve an 18-month sentence for driving under the influence, following charges filed on August 11.
On December 16, while he was in custody with other inmates, Kenney experienced a cardiac emergency. Fellow inmates quickly notified correctional officers, prompting medical personnel to rush to the scene to assist. Thanks to their prompt intervention, they were able to restore Kenney’s pulse, and he was subsequently taken to a local hospital for further treatment.
Kenney returned to the detention center on December 20 after being discharged from the hospital. However, just five and a half hours later, he suffered another cardiac incident. During this second hospitalization, he encountered a third cardiac episode.
Sadly, officials confirmed that Kenney passed away due to his medical condition on December 27.
In light of this incident, the Harford County Sheriff’s Office’s Criminal Investigation Division has initiated an inquiry into Kenney’s death, receiving assistance from the Forensic Services Unit. The preliminary findings indicated that Kenney’s passing was attributed to natural causes.
“We recognize that individuals in our custody often face considerable medical challenges, and we take our responsibility to ensure their well-being very seriously,” stated Sheriff Jeffrey Gahler. “In this instance, our Correctional Deputies and associated medical staff responded swiftly and professionally to multiple medical emergencies at the Detention Center, doing everything within their power to save Mr. Kenney’s life. Sadly, his medical condition was ultimately not survivable; I commend their efforts and their unwavering commitment to the safety and care of everyone in our custody.”
Officials have reported that Kenney’s death marked the only in-custody fatality at the Harford County Detention Center for the year 2025.
