July 20, 2026 - Shelby County Sheriff’s Chief Mike Hanson has confirmed the in-custody death of James Elliott Perry, Jr., 49, of Center.
As is protocol, Chief Hanson explained the Sheriff’s Department has an ongoing internal investigation, corresponding information has been supplied to the Texas Department of Jail Standards and the Texas Rangers will lead an independent investigation.
According to Shelby County Jail information, Perry was arrested for disorderly conduct (indecent exposure) on Saturday evening, July 18, 2026, and he was booked in to the jail at 10:11pm. While in custody, Perry died.
Mangum Funeral Home later transported Perry sometime before 9am on Sunday, July 19, and an autopsy has been ordered.
Further information is unavailable at the time of this report, and will be updated as details are made available.
