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Police: Suspect Who Died While In Custody Had Balloons With Narcotics In Stomach

DENVER (CBS4) - Denver police said a man has died while in police custody after allegedly attacking an officer.

A medical examiner on Monday found a large amount of suspected narcotic encased in balloons in the suspect's stomach.

Sonny Jackson with Denver police said on Sunday at approximately 9:20 p.m. Sunday officers conducted a traffic stop near 47th Avenue and Washington Street.

"Upon contact the suspect became combative and attempted to assault the officer. The suspect was taken into custody after a brief use of force. After being handcuffed the suspect walked to the police car and was placed in the back seat. A short time later the suspect was observed in what appeared to be medical distress," Jackson said in a statement.

The suspect was transported to a hospital and died a short time later.

"It appears one or more of the balloons burst or opened, releasing the content into the victim's system," Jackson said.

The investigation is being monitored by the Office of the Independent Monitor.

The suspect's name hasn't been released.

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