Mississippi police have stated that additional arrests are expected in the ongoing investigation into the death of Tasia Fortune, a Black woman whose body was found hanging from a tree last month.
Jarques Ratliff, 51, was arrested on a homicide charge after being encountered walking on the street, authorities said on Friday. Jackson’s police chief, RaShall Brackney, confirmed on Friday that Mr Ratliff had an “association” with Ms Fortune but did not provide further details on their relationship.
The state medical examiner’s office determined on Thursday evening that Ms Fortune's death was a homicide. Mr Ratliff is expected to appear in Jackson municipal court no later than Monday morning.
Ms Fortune, 29, was a mother of four children. Her mother, Christy Spivey, expressed disbelief and shock following the arrest, stating she did not know the man arrested and was seeking answers.