Child Sex Assault Defendant Takes Life In Lockup: Bergen Co. Sheriff

HACKENSACK, NJ — A Bergen County Jail inmate who was arrested in connection with the alleged sexual assault of a child relative died of oxygen deprivation this week after an apparent suicide attempt, Sheriff Anthony Cureton said in a statement.

Jose Patricio-Manzano, 39, of Ridgefield Park, who was remanded to the jail on multiple charges on Tuesday, was found, during a cell check, on the floor with a bedsheet tied around his neck. He appeared to have lowered himself, causing asphyxiation, Cureton said.

Jail medical staff rendered aid on scene, and Manzano was transported to an area hospital and is currently under observation.

He subsequently passed, Cureton said, as a result of oxygen deprivation to his brain.