The Legal Aid Society is mourning the loss of Edwin Ramos, who died this morning in custody of the New York City Department of Correction (DOC).

“Our hearts ache for Edwin Ramos,” reads a statement from Legal Aid. “He is yet another New Yorker whose life has been taken by the City’s dysfunctional jail system, and an immediate, swift, and impartial investigation into the circumstances surrounding his death is essential.”

“Just days ago, Mr. Ramos spoke with family and showed no signs of distress,” the statement continues. “This morning, he was scheduled to take a plea — before his father — that would have allowed him to begin rebuilding his life outside of jail. He will never get the chance to start that new chapter.”

Legal Aid is calling for any information related to Mr. Ramos’ death to be immediately disclosed to his family, loved ones, and counsel. The situation requires full accountability and transparency.