State Police Investigating Shreveport Police In-Custody Death

Earlier this week, Shreveport Police responded to reports of a theft on Youree Drive.

When Police got to the scene, they were able to find the theft suspect Thomas Cockman. Cockman tried running away from SPD when the approached him, but Officers were able to catch and detain him.

After Cockman was arrested, he started complaining that he was having difficulty breathing. SPD called-in the Shreveport Fire Department to assist with this medical issue. SFD took the man to the hospital as a precaution, and Police released him to the custody of the hospital where doctors expected him to recover.

Cockman was cited with one count of theft and one count of resisting an officer.

While getting treatment in the hospital, Cockman passed away yesterday morning. The cause of death is not known.

Louisiana State Police have started an investigation in to Cockman's death in accordance to protocol and transparency.

From SPD:

"The Shreveport Police Department is committed to full cooperation with the investigation and remains dedicated to upholding accountability and public trust."