U.S. Attorney Reopens Investigation in the Death of Valdosta Teen

MACON, Georgia (41NBC/WMGT) – The case of a Valdosta teen found dead rolled up inside a gym mat in January is once again an open investigation.

The United States Attorney for the Middle District of Georgia Michael Moore, and his office, are reviewing all evidence regarding 17-year-old Kendrick Johnson’s death.

This investigation comes just one day after Johnson’s parents won a court order to release surveillance video from the day the teen died.

A GBI autopsy reveals Johnson died because he was not able to breathe inside the mat, but another report says otherwise.

A recent independent autopsy done by Johnson’s parents shows the cause of death was blunt force trauma to the neck.

The Lowndes County Sheriff’s Department closed the case earlier this year, but the Johnson family attorney took the case to the US Department of Justice to review the investigation.

“I have personally reviewed the official documents and have spoken to the individuals involved in this investigation,” says Moore.

Since investigators reopened the case, they are looking for the real cause of Johnson’s death.

“As part of that process, there are several questions that must be answered or confirmed.” Moore says, “First, what was the cause of Mr. Johnson’s death? Second, was Mr. Johnson’s death the result of a crime? Third, if Mr. Johnson’s death was the result of a crime, who committed that crime? Fourth, if a crime was committed, who has the jurisdiction to investigate and prosecute those responsible?”

Moore requested a partnership with the FBI.

“Should sufficient information be developed to warrant a criminal civil rights investigation, I will ask the FBI to open a civil rights, or any other appropriate investigation.”

Moore says many people have expressed their opinions, but those with “factual and specific information” are asked to contact his office: (478) 621-2701.

See previous article.