GBI Investigates In-Custody Death in Cumming

FORSYTH COUNTY, Ga. – The GBI is investigating the in-custody death of Robert Cornelious Powell, age 32, of Brooklyn, New York. Cumming Police Officers arrested Powell for shoplifting following a foot pursuit. Powell became unresponsive at the hospital where he died.

On Sunday, February 11, 2024, Cumming Target Loss Prevention contacted Forsyth County 911 about Powell, who was identified as a shoplifter at two Target stores. When Cumming police officers arrived at the Cumming Target, Powell ran from police. Officers ran after Powell.  Powell ran through the woods, but eventually surrendered to police.  Police took Powell into custody without incident. As officers handcuffed Powell, they found an injury on his leg.  Powell told officers he was having difficulty breathing.  Police called EMS to treat Powell, and he was taken to a local hospital.  Powell’s condition continued to decline, and he was ultimately pronounced dead at the hospital.

Powell will be taken to the GBI Medical Examiner’s Office for an autopsy.

When the investigation is complete, it will be given to the Forsyth County District Attorney’s Office for review.