Charges dismissed against deputy sheriff in death of Charles Adair in the Wyandotte County jail

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Updated: 8:10 PM CDT Aug 27, 2026

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JoBeth Davis

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The Wyandotte County deputy sheriff who had been named in connection with the death of a man in the Wyandotte County Jail is no longer facing charges, according to his defense attorney.

Wyandotte County Sheriff's deputy charged in death of inmate Charles Adair

Richard Fatherley had been charged with second-degree murder and involuntary manslaughter in the alternative for the July 5, 2025, death of Charles Adair.

An autopsy obtained by KMBC 9 Investigates found Adair died from complications of mechanical asphyxia after an officer knelt on his back. The coroner ruled the death a homicide.

Fatherley worked in the detention center at the time.

Fatherley's attorney, James Spies, told KMBC 9 News Thursday that after a preliminary hearing, all charges against his client had been dismissed.

The Wyandotte County District Attorney's Office confirmed the news Thursday afternoon in a statement, saying Wyandotte County Judge Aaron Roberts dismissed all charges against Fatherley.

"We respect the law, but disagree with the decision," Wyandotte County District Attorney Mark Dupree said in the statement. "As such, the Wyandotte County District Attorney's Office has filed a notice to appeal with the Kansas Court of Appeals."

Loved ones of Charles Adair say viewing body-camera footage leading to his death was 'devastating'

Adair had been booked into the jail on July 4, 2025, on misdemeanor failure-to-appear warrants tied to traffic violations.

A Kansas Bureau of Investigation news release said he was treated in the jail infirmary for a preexisting leg wound before being escorted back to his cell, where he allegedly resisted deputies.

Adair suffered rib fractures, internal bleeding and other injuries, according to the report.