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Inmate from Mule Creek charged with wife's murder during a conjugal visit faces initial court hearing

Inmate set to make court appearance for the first time on Friday, accused of murdering partner during a conjugal visit at Mule Creek State Prison.

Inmate at Mule Creek accused of murdering his wife during a conjugal visit scheduled for initial...
Inmate at Mule Creek accused of murdering his wife during a conjugal visit scheduled for initial court appearance.

Inmate from Mule Creek charged with wife's murder during a conjugal visit faces initial court hearing

In a shocking turn of events, Mule Creek State Prison in California has been the site of two tragic deaths during family visits in 2024. The first victim was Tania Thomas, followed by Stephanie Dowells.

The families of both Tania Thomas and Stephanie Dowells have filed a wrongful death lawsuit against the California Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation (CDCR) this year.

The Office of the Inspector General (OIG) has been monitoring the CDCR's investigations, including the investigations into the deaths of Tania Thomas and Stephanie Dowells at Mule Creek State Prison. The OIG's role is to review and assess the investigations for thoroughness, determining if any allegations of staff misconduct are identified.

In the case of Stephanie Dowells, the OIG found the department's performance to be "adequate," but they agreed with the findings that the incident was a homicide and should be referred to the Amador County District Attorney's Office. However, the OIG did not identify any staff misconduct in the investigation into Tania Thomas' death.

An autopsy showed that Stephanie Dowells' cause of death was strangulation, while the circumstances surrounding Tania Thomas' death are still under investigation. Anthony Curry, the husband of Tania Thomas, has been charged with her murder, and his court appearance is scheduled for a future date. David Brinson, who is already serving four consecutive life sentences without the possibility of parole, is accused of killing Stephanie Dowells.

It's worth noting that Mule Creek State Prison averaged nearly fourteen family visits per week last year, making it one of the highest in the state. Despite the tragic incidents, the prison continues to facilitate family visits, which are crucial for maintaining connections between inmates and their loved ones.

Madisen Keavy, a reporter for our13, is covering the story weekdays, providing updates as more information becomes available. The legal proceedings and investigations are ongoing, and the families of the victims are seeking justice.

As the investigation continues, the community and the families of the victims await answers and accountability from the CDCR. The tragic events at Mule Creek State Prison serve as a stark reminder of the importance of thorough investigations and the need for transparency in such sensitive matters.

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