Judge Drops Charges Against Deputy | Kansas City News

A judge dropped all criminal charges against Sheriff’s Deputy Richard Fatherley in the death of Charles Adair, who died in custody in July 2025, citing insufficient evidence to prove second-degree murder or manslaughter. The defense argued that medical negligence at Providence Medical Center—by failing to recognize Adair’s severe health conditions—may have contributed more than any deputy action. Witnesses described Adair as noncompliant during restraint, and while the medical examiner ruled mechanical asphyxia caused death, the prosecution’s failure to call key medical experts weakened their case. An earlier KBI investigation also found no crime occurred. Though charges are dismissed, Fatherley still faces a civil wrongful death suit, and his return to duty remains uncertain as the sheriff’s office has not commented. Listen in comfort:Get a discount on a Soli Pillow: http://solipillow.com/discount/dnn. Advertise on DNN:[email protected] This is an automated, high-level news summary based on public reporting.Report issues to [email protected]. View sources & latest updates:https://sources.thednn.ai/0e20cb17192011f0