Ten Plead Not Guilty in Federal Court Over Tony Mitchell’s Death
The death of Tony Mitchell in the Walker County Jail has led to criminal charges against both law enforcement and medical staff in Alabama. On August 14th, 2025, ten individuals appeared before a federal judge in Birmingham and each entered a plea of not guilty. Among those represented is Alicia Herron, a medical professional, whose defense is being led by Birmingham attorney Richard Jaffe from Jaffe, Hanle, Whisonant & Knight, P.C.
Background of the Case
Tony Mitchell died in January 2023 after spending two weeks in the Walker County Jail. His passing sparked questions about inmate medical care and has resulted in federal charges against ten people connected to the jail.
Federal Court Arraignment
The ten defendants arraigned in federal court included current and former Walker County Sheriff’s Office employees and medical staff contracted to provide healthcare at the jail.
Those arraigned included:
- Arceilia Tidwell
- Daniel Vickery
- Dayton Wakefield
- Robert Madison
- Jacob Edwards
- Alicia Herron
- Patricia Hammonds
- Bradley Allred
- Jamie Johnson
- Dana McMillan
All defendants entered not guilty pleas and were released on bond following their court appearance.
Charges Against Medical Staff
The five medical professionals, including Ms. Herron, face allegations of conspiracy against rights and deprivation of rights. Federal documents allege deliberate indifference to Mitchell’s condition, claiming that their inaction created a substantial risk of serious harm.
Defense Counsel Response
Attorney Richard Jaffe, who represents Alicia Herron, strongly pushed back on the charges, reiterating his client’s innocence.
“We, again, are disappointed that the Department of Justice from D.C. came down here to indict her for something that she clearly asserts her innocence to,” said Jaffe.
Jaffe emphasized that Ms. Herron disputes the allegations and maintains she acted appropriately in her role as medical staff.
Moving Forward
As the case proceeds, all ten defendants will face the federal court system in Alabama. For Ms. Herron, Richard Jaffe and his legal team remain committed to ensuring that her rights are protected and that her side of the story is fully heard.
Contact the Birmingham Criminal Defense Attorneys at Jaffe, Hanle, Whisonant & Knight, P.C. If You Need Legal Help
If you or a loved one are facing state or federal charges, you need an experienced legal team on your side. The Birmingham criminal defense lawyers at Jaffe, Hanle, Whisonant & Knight, P.C. have 100 years of combined experience handling complex cases and protecting clients’ rights in high-stakes situations. Contact us today to discuss your case in a free and confidential consultation.
For more information, contact an experienced Birmingham criminal defense attorney at Jaffe, Hanle, Whisonant & Knight, P.C. for a free consultation.
We proudly serve clients in Birmingham and all throughout Alabama.
Jaffe, Hanle, Whisonant & Knight, P.C.
2320 Arlington Ave S, Suite 100, Birmingham, AL 35205
(205) 930-9800