Investigation Underway After Inmate Death at Jessup Correctional Institution

State of MD - The Maryland State Police are investigating the death of a state prison inmate in Anne Arundel County. The incident occurred at the Jessup Correctional Institution.

The inmate has been identified as Javon Foster, 38. He was serving time at the state prison when the incident took place. Emergency medical service personnel pronounced Foster deceased at the scene.

His body was transported to the Office of the Chief Medical Examiner for an autopsy. This examination will determine the official cause and manner of death.

The Maryland State Police Homicide Unit was contacted at 7:25 p.m. on January 18, 2026. Investigators from the Department of Public Safety and Correctional Services Internal Investigative Unit (DPSCS IIU) reported the death.

A preliminary investigation indicates that Foster was discovered on the floor of his cell. Police believe that Foster's cellmate was present in the cell at the time of his death.

Investigators from the State Police Homicide Unit are continuing their inquiries. Assistance is being provided by State Police crime scene technicians. The DPSCS Internal Investigative Unit is also aiding in the ongoing investigation.