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Investigation in to Taser-involved death continues with autopsy complete

The autopsy is complete, with investigation now moving forward in to the death of a man at Meridian Behavioral Healthcare yesterday. Alachua County Sheriff’s Office Sergeant Todd Kelly says deputies were compelled to use Tasers to subdue a Hernando County man at the facility under a Baker Act.

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Kelly says there is no administrative action planned against the deputies who used the Tasers at this time because they appear to have followed general protocol.

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ASO is still awaiting toxicology reports to help interpret what the cause of death is, although Kelly says the department doesn't believe the use of Tasers contributed to the death.  Nehemiah Lazar Dillard was tearing up property and making threats at the center yesterday morning.  He was shot twice by Tasers and given medication before getting transported to Shands.  He went in to cardiac arrest and was pronounced dead at the hospital.

Stephanie is a reporter for WUFT News who may be contacted by calling 352-392-6397 or emailing news @wuft.org