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The FBI has launched an investigation into the death of Dennoriss Richardson, a 39-year-old Black man from Sheffield, Alabama, who was found hanging in an abandoned house in Colbert County. The inquiry was initiated at the request of Sheriff Eric Balentine, following concerns from Richardson's family and widespread distrust of local law enforcement.

Richardson was discovered in September, miles away from his home in Sheffield, a city of approximately 10,000 residents near the Tennessee River. The Colbert County Sheriff's Office classified the death as a suicide, but Richardson's wife, Leigh, disputes this. She asserts that her husband had no reason to end his life and questions the connection to the lawsuit he filed against the local police department earlier this year.

In February, Dennoriss Richardson accused local officers of excessive force and mistreatment while he was incarcerated. Leigh Richardson believes her husband's death could be linked to this legal action. Although she has not accused any individual specifically, she is adamant that her husband did not kill himself. Her suspicions are shared by many in the community who point to a history of racial tension and allegations of police misconduct in Colbert County.

Sheriff Balentine confirmed that the FBI is examining the case. He stated that his department had thoroughly investigated and stands by its findings but hopes the FBI's involvement will provide the family with further assurance. Meanwhile, the local NAACP chapter, led by Tori Bailey, underscores the community’s skepticism. The chapter points out that, given the region's history of lynchings, distrust of law enforcement is deeply ingrained.

Marvin Long, a lifelong Colbert County resident, and a family friend of Richardson, also voiced his concerns. Long has had his own encounters with local law enforcement, which have led him to fear retaliation. He shared an incident from 2021 where he described being violently mishandled by police officers, an episode that only heightened his mistrust and fear.

The concerns over Richardson's death are compounded by other allegations against the Sheffield Police Department. In recent years, several lawsuits have been filed by Black and Latino men claiming excessive force and mistreatment. One high-profile case involved an off-duty officer who was caught on camera assaulting a Black man at a liquor store, leading to the officer's conviction and dismissal from the force.

Sheffield Mayor Steve Stanley has expressed confidence in the local police while also supporting accountability for any misconduct. He mentioned that Richardson had raised concerns about being profiled prior to his death. Though Richardson had a history of legal troubles, his pleas for transparency and fair treatment resonate strongly within the community.

The uncertainty surrounding Richardson's death persists, fueling calls for justice and clarity. The FBI's investigation is seen by many as a necessary step to rebuild trust and ensure accountability.