A mother from the Bronx, deeply heartbroken, is pressing New York City to release documents that would shed light on the tragic last moments of her daughter, Saniyah Cheatham. The 18-year-old took her own life by strangling herself with her sweater while in an NYPD holding cell.
Thomasina Cheatham, 46, is seeking information after her daughter died in the custody of the Bronx’s 41st precinct on July 5, 2025, following an overnight detention. Saniyah was reportedly experiencing a mental health crisis when she was arrested at a party in Crotona Park, where she had a fight with her girlfriend.
The documents indicate that Saniyah expressed suicidal thoughts to the police, warning them that she might harm herself if left alone. It’s a bit puzzling how the officers fully comprehended her state but still placed her in a solitary cell.
Unfortunately, she was discovered dead around 1 a.m., just hours after her confinement began.
In her petition filed on September 3 in Manhattan Supreme Court, Thomasina claims that despite her daughter’s clear need for mental health assistance, the officers disregarded her situation and left her alone. She’s requesting comprehensive records from the FDNY regarding the emergency medical response to the incident.
According to her, the fire department has continuously denied her requests for this information, even though they are a public agency required to provide it. She initially sought these documents back in February.
“These preventable failures are inexcusable,” stated civil rights attorney Ben Crump. He emphasized that they would pursue every legal option to uncover the truth and ensure justice for Saniyah’s family.
Additionally, in November 2025, Thomasina filed another petition, this time asking the NYPD to disclose the names of the officers who arrested Saniyah and were present on the night she died. She also wants access to all body camera footage, security video, and any relevant records.
Following Saniyah’s death, Bronx Borough President Vanessa Gibson acknowledged the family’s distress and the need for accountability. She emphasized the importance of addressing their pain while aiming to foster trust with the NYPD.
Requests for comments from Thomasina, her attorney, and representatives from the city and NYPD went unanswered. The FDNY opted not to comment.
If you’re feeling overwhelmed or having thoughts of self-harm, and you’re in New York City, you can reach out to 1-888-NYC-WELL for confidential, free crisis counseling. For those outside the area, the National Suicide Prevention hotline at 988 is available 24/7, along with resources at SuicidePreventionLifeline.org.
