During a formal arraignment last Friday, two employees of the Cooper County Sheriff’s Office, accused of involuntary manslaughter following the death of inmate Brooke Bailey, entered pleas of not guilty. Bailey, a type 1 diabetic, was discovered deceased in her cell on October 27th, reportedly experiencing breathing difficulties.

According to court documents, Lieutenant Robyn Pfeiffer and Court Deputy Rachel Atherton are accused of neglecting to provide medical assistance to Bailey and even dissuading other staff members from intervening.

Records indicate that Pfeiffer allegedly expressed doubts about Bailey’s need for help, suggesting she was “faking it” to other employees.

Warrants were issued in Howard County for both employees on February 29th, leading to their voluntary surrender. They were subsequently released on a $7,500 bond.

Bailey’s family, who have staged protests outside the jail, have vowed to pursue justice. A preliminary hearing for Pfeiffer and Atherton is scheduled for May 17th.