For Immediate Release: Tuesday, April 21, 2026
Media Contact: Zach Carlyle | doc.media@iowa.gov | (515) 415-7235
FORT MADISON, Iowa — An inmate at the Iowa State Penitentiary died at 9:31 p.m. on Friday, April 17, 2026.
Jess Ellsworth Whitsel, age 77, was serving for crimes committed in Linn County.
Whitsel's sentence began on April 23, 1982.
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About the Iowa Department of Corrections
The Iowa Department of Corrections is making significant strides to implement evidence-based practices system-wide that are proven to reduce victimization, reduce recidivism and enhance community safety. The IDOC is a nationally recognized leader in corrections for innovation and implementation of evidence-based practices. Being on the forefront of innovation and practice, the IDOC continues its commitment to be the best corrections system in the country.
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