Sex offender hangs himself in Jail

A convicted sex offender apparently hanged himself this morning inside the Polk County Jail.

Investigators say 26-year-old David Spalding of Lakeland hanged himself with a bed sheet.

Records show Spalding was initially arrested in April 2006 on three counts of sexual battery. Detectives say his victim was a 14-year-old girl who ended up pregnant from the crime.

He pleaded guilty to some of the charges and was released last February after serving six months and being placed on 10 years probation.

He was recently arrested on probation violations. Investigators say he admitted he had contact with children under 18 and that he failed to move from his residence, as required by the court.

This morning jail officials say they found Spalding unresponsive during routine, early morning rounds at the jail.

Spalding's two cellmates say they were unaware of the death. Medical personnel were not able to revive Spalding.

The death is under review of the Polk County State Attorney's Office.