The Virginia State Police (VSP) have confirmed via email that they have launched an investigation into the arrest and death of Ralph Ennis on April 2 in Front Royal.

VSP and the Medical Examiner’s Office are conducting  a thorough investigation of the death of Ennis.

In light of the release of a Front Royal Police Department (FRPD) video of the arrest and the other agencies investigating the Warren County Sheriff’s Office (WCSO) is suspending its own internal investigation.

According to Warren County Sheriff Mark Butler stopping the internal investigation will ensure no interference with the ongoing investigation by any other agencies.

After the completion of the State Police and Medical Examiner’s investigation the WCSO will have an impartial law enforcement and civilian board conduct an investigation of the Sheriff’s Department.

Sheriff Butler reiterated his pledge of full disclosure in the incident and expressed thoughts and prayers to the family and deputies involved in the incident.

One deputy has been placed on administrative leave while another has been reassigned to administrative duties while the investigation is conducted.

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