The Polk County Jail has reported the in-custody death of a Livingston man.
On Sunday at approximately 10:25 a.m., the Polk County Sheriff’s Office jail staff responded to a medical emergency involving an inmate. Johnny Bernard Miles, 66, was being housed at the Polk County Jail when he experienced a medical emergency.
Miles was transported to CHI St. Luke’s Health Memorial in Livingston for medical treatment. At approximately 11:44 a.m., Miles was pronounced deceased by the treating physicians.
Next of kin has been notified. Miles was admitted into the jail near the end of June, being held on a $25,000 bond for driving while intoxicated (third or more).
The Texas Rangers are investigating the in-custody death. All information related to the incident will be forwarded to the Texas Commission on Jail Standards for review as part of its investigation.
Polk County Sheriff Byron Lyons said the men and women of the Polk County Sheriff’s Office extend their deepest condolences and prayers to the family and loved ones of Miles during this difficult time.
It is the third death for a Polk County inmate in 2026.
Michael Scott Calvert died April 11 after experiencing seizures and jail personnel attempted CPR until EMS arrived.
Thomas Earl Boone did not die in the jail, but instead on medical furlough. He developed problems while at CHI Livingston and was transported to Houston, where he subsequently died.
