💔 A Family’s Grief Turns To Outrage
The family of Saniyah Cheatham, an 18-year-old college student found deceased in a New York City police holding cell, is demanding answers and accountability in the wake of her tragic and sudden death.
Saniyah, who was enrolled at Bronx Community College and preparing for the next semester, was taken into custody on July 4 following a fight—reportedly with her girlfriend—according to the NYPD. By the early hours of July 5, she was dead.
The New York City Medical Examiner’s Office has ruled her death a suicide by hanging.
But Saniyah’s family says that doesn’t add up—and they’re now seeking full transparency from police.
🕊️ Who Was Saniyah Cheatham?
- Age: 18
- Hometown: New York City
- College: Bronx Community College
- Known for: Her ambition, bright personality, and dedication to her education
Saniyah had no known history of suicidal thoughts or mental health issues, according to her family. Her mother, Thomasina Cheatham, has publicly rejected the claim that her daughter took her own life, raising serious concerns about the events that took place inside the NYPD’s 41st Precinct.
“I don’t believe she killed herself,” Thomasina told NBC New York.
“Maybe she said something they didn’t like, they roughed her up. I don’t believe my daughter committed suicide.”
⚖️ Ben Crump Joins The Fight For Justice
National civil rights attorney Ben Crump is now representing the Cheatham family. At a press conference held on July 14, Crump stood alongside Thomasina and community members demanding accountability.
“The NYPD claims Saniyah took her own life, but her family is demanding full transparency,” Crump said, “including the immediate release of all video, including surveillance video from inside the 41st Precinct.”
He added, “We want to know what happened to Saniyah Cheatham. We want to know how it happened. And we want to know why you didn’t prevent this from happening.”
🔍 Disputes Over The Details
The NYPD reportedly told Saniyah’s mother that her daughter used a sweater to hang herself—but Thomasina insists her daughter wasn’t even wearing one that day.
Her family is also calling for the release of Saniyah’s autopsy, a request the Office of the Chief Medical Examiner says can be granted to next of kin.
The NYPD’s Force Investigation Division is actively investigating the case.
🧠 If You Or Someone You Know Is Struggling…
If you or someone close to you is struggling with emotional distress, mental health concerns, or suicidal thoughts, help is available 24/7. Call or text 988 or visit 988lifeline.org.
Stay with Ice Cream Convos as I continue to follow the latest developments in the Saniyah Cheatham case.
I stand with her family in the call for truth and justice.
🗣️ Frens, what are your thoughts on this heartbreaking situation? Drop down in the comments.
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