United States Attorney David Metcalf announced the conviction of Ivory S. Cousins for violating an inmate's constitutional rights while serving as a correctional officer. Cousins, aged 35, hails from Glassboro, New Jersey, and faced accusations of civil rights violations and falsifying a report. The Philadelphia Department of Prisons played a crucial role in the case.
The indictment, issued in August 2024, alleged that Cousins neglected an inmate's medical needs after an assault by fellow inmates, used pepper spray on him, aided in theft from the inmate, and obstructed the investigation.
Evidence presented in court showed that Cousins, while on duty at the Curran-Fromhold Correctional Facility, ignored the inmate’s serious injuries. She did not arrange for medical attention and even prevented a superior from noticing the injuries. Her partner eventually called for medical help, but before assistance arrived, Cousins pepper-sprayed the injured inmate.
After the inmate was taken for medical care, Cousins assisted in taking his belongings. Her report on the incident falsely described the inmate as aggressive, claiming he was involved in a fight and brandishing a weapon.
Sentencing is set for July 24, with Cousins potentially facing up to 41 years in prison.
U.S. Attorney Metcalf emphasized the importance of prisoner rights, stating, “Prisoners still have civil rights, and we will prosecute all violations committed by officials entrusted with their security.” Wayne A. Jacobs of the FBI remarked, “Today’s verdict illustrates that no one is above the law, especially those who swear an oath to uphold it.”
The FBI led the investigation with assistance from the Philadelphia Department of Prisons, and prosecution is handled by Assistant United States Attorneys Everett Witherell and Jessica Rice.