Written by: Sam Orlando
VIRGINIA BEACH, VIRGINIA - In a significant development concerning law enforcement accountability, three former deputies from the Virginia Beach Sheriff's Office have been charged with second-degree murder following the death of inmate Rolin Hill. The indictments were issued after a special grand jury convened to examine the circumstances surrounding Hill's death in June 2024.
Incident Overview
On June 4, 2024, 34-year-old Rolin Hill was arrested by the Virginia Beach Police Department at a 7-Eleven store on charges of trespassing, resisting arrest, and disorderly conduct. Upon arrival at the Virginia Beach Correctional Center, Hill was described as "uncooperative and combative," leading deputies to restrain him for "his safety and the safety of the arresting officers and jail deputies." Shortly thereafter, Hill experienced a medical emergency and was transported to Sentara Princess Anne Hospital, where he passed away on June 10.
Medical Examiner's Findings
The Virginia Office of the Chief Medical Examiner determined that Hill's death resulted from "positional and mechanical asphyxia due to restraint with neck and torso compression," classifying the manner of death as homicide.
Deputies Charged
The former deputies charged are:
Eric G. Baptiste, 39, of Virginia Beach, facing charges of second-degree murder and five counts of assault and battery.
Michael C. Kidd, 39, of Chesapeake, charged with second-degree murder and two counts of assault and battery.
Kevin B. Wilson, 34, of Virginia Beach, charged with second-degree murder.
Legal Proceedings
The special grand jury, convened by Commonwealth's Attorney Colin Stolle, met multiple times over several weeks to review evidence related to Hill's arrest and subsequent death. The indictments were returned on January 3, 2025. The charged deputies have since turned themselves in and are being held without bond, with arraignments scheduled in Virginia Beach Circuit Court.
Sheriff's Office Response
Virginia Beach Sheriff Rocky Holcomb stated, "I have faith in the criminal justice system to ensure justice is served for both Rolin Hill and the individuals involved in this incident." He emphasized his commitment to transparency and accountability but refrained from releasing additional information due to the pending criminal proceedings.
Community Reaction
The Virginia Beach chapter of the NAACP has expressed concerns regarding the circumstances of Hill's death, highlighting issues of accountability and transparency within law enforcement agencies. A vigil was held in Hill's memory, underscoring the community's demand for justice and systemic reform.
Ongoing Investigation
The Virginia State Police, in collaboration with the Commonwealth's Attorney's Office, continues to investigate the incident to ensure a comprehensive understanding of the events leading to Hill's death. This case underscores the critical need for adherence to proper restraint protocols and the safeguarding of inmate welfare within correctional facilities.
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