Evans Moore, LLC Represents Family of Man Who Died in Police Custody

At Evans Moore, LLC, we believe that every individual in state custody has a fundamental right to safety, human dignity, and essential medical care. When these rights are ignored by those sworn to protect them, the consequences are often tragic and irreversible.

Our firm is currently representing Kelly Mitchell, the mother of 25-year-old Joseph Zeller, in a wrongful death lawsuit against the City of Myrtle Beach.

The Case: Zeller v. City of Myrtle Beach

On May 8, 2024, Joseph Zeller was detained by Myrtle Beach Police for behaving “erratically”—only hours after he had been released from psychiatric treatment at Grand Strand Medical Center. According to the complaint filed on February 3, Joseph was immediately placed in a restraint chair upon his arrival at the jail.

The lawsuit alleges that Joseph entered a medical emergency shortly after being restrained. Despite his clear and immediate need for intervention, the facility failed to provide the life-saving attention required, leading to his preventable death while in police custody.

As attorney James Moore III, who represents the Zeller estate, stated:

“Joseph was presumed innocent. He was entitled to medical care, and he was deserving of human dignity. No family should have to endure the kind of loss that they’ve gone through. We’re committed to holding Myrtle Beach responsible, and hopefully pushing for change is necessary to prevent this from happening to somebody else.”

Featured in The Post and Courier

This case has gained significant attention for highlighting the dangers of custodial restraint and the necessity of mental health awareness within the justice system. We encourage you to read the full investigative report in The Post and Courier to learn more about the circumstances surrounding Joseph’s death and our fight for accountability.

Our Commitment to Accountability

The legal team at Evans Moore, LLC works tirelessly to support families shattered by systemic neglect. The attorneys involved in the Zeller case include:

• James B. Moore III: Lead counsel advocating for the Zeller estate and pushing for systemic change.
• Scott C. Evans: Partner at Evans Moore, LLC, dedicated to protecting the rights of the injured.
• George W. Bryan III: Key member of the litigation team seeking justice for the Zeller family.

We provide aggressive legal representation in cases involving:

• Jail Misconduct: Holding facilities accountable for failing to provide medical care or maintain unsafe conditions for inmates.
• Wrongful Death in Jail: Helping families navigate the legal process after the loss of a loved one due to negligence in a correctional facility.

If your family has been affected by misconduct or negligence within the legal system, we are here to ensure your voice is heard. Reach out to our team today to discuss your rights.