Forsyth Deputy Was Given Merit-Based Raise After John Neville's Death

A Forsyth County deputy charged in the death of a Greensboro man was given a merit-based pay raise about a month after he died. 

36-year-old Sarah Poole was one of six people charged with involuntary manslaughter in the death of John Neville, who died at an area hospital last December. District Attorney Jim O'Neill said an autopsy revealed Neville died from complications of being restrained at the Forsyth County Jail.

According to The News & Observer, county documents show that Poole received an “above standard” evaluation dated January 11, along with a raise of 61 cents per hour. That was nearly five weeks after the State Bureau of Investigation opened an inquiry into Neville's death. That investigation led to charges against five detention officers and a nurse earlier this month.

The sheriff's office has not responded to questions about Poole's appraisal and subsequent pay raise.

Numerous demonstrations have been held in downtown Winston-Salem since charges were filed, with protesters seeking more clarity and the release of videos related to the case.