2 ex-deputies acquitted of manslaughter in stun gun death

(AP) — Nine months after Mathew Ajibade died alone in a jail cell while strapped to a chair, two sheriff's deputies have been acquitted of involuntary manslaughter in his death but still face prison sentences for related crimes.

An attorney representing Ajibade's relatives blamed prosecutors for targeting rank-and-file jailers instead of investigating lapses by Sheriff Al St. Lawrence and his senior staff — adding that a civil lawsuit will likely follow.

Kenny was acquitted of involuntary manslaughter, aggravated assault and perjury charges punishable by up to 40 years in prison combined.

Maxine Evans could face up to 40 years in prison after being found guilty of public records fraud and three counts of perjury for lying to a grand jury.

Prosecutors accused her of failing to check Ajibade's medical condition and faking jail logs to make it appear the checks were performed.

Kenny told investigators Ajibade was combative as jailers tried to strap him into the chair, but prosecutor Christy Barker said video from the Taser's built-in camera showed him slumping in the chair.