MISSISSIPPI POLICE SAY TASIA FORTUNE WAS DEAD BEFORE HANGING STAGED

Police in Jackson, Mississippi, believe Tasia Fortune was already dead before her body was placed hanging from a tree, according to US media reports of a detective's testimony in court on Friday. The detective said investigators believe Fortune was killed in a dispute connected to drugs. Her body was found hanging from a tree at an abandoned house in Jackson in August. The discovery caused widespread concern in the city, where the population is majority black, given the state's history of racial violence and lynching. Officials have not detailed the exact cause of death or explained why they believe the scene was staged.

Authorities made multiple arrests following weeks of limited public information about the case. Jarques Ratliff was arrested and has pleaded not guilty; he remains in custody without bond. Earnest Lloyd Jr was arrested this week, and a third person was reportedly being sought. Earlier this month, the medical examiner's office confirmed Fortune's death was a homicide and said a murder charge would follow.

Jackson Police Chief RaShall Brackney said in a statement that the department's language had been consistent, adding that Fortune was found in a hanging position and that no contrary information had been released. Brackney did not immediately respond to further questions about the detective's disclosure in court, according to reports. The detective's account goes beyond what police had previously said publicly about the case. The investigation continues, with a murder charge expected against at least one of those arrested.