VINELAND -- The family of the 32-year-old man who died in police custody earlier this week is concerned about the circumstances surrounding his death, according to a statement by their attorney.

The family of Phillip White, 32, of Walnut Road, retained the attorney to conduct an independent investigation of the incident.

"The public and Mr. White's family deserve answers as to how Phillip was killed and why there is a lack of oversight of local police," said Conrad J. Benedetto, the attorney representing the family, in a press release.

Prosecutor Jennifer Webb-McRae declined to comment on the press release.

Vineland police were first dispatched to the 100 block of Grape Street Tuesday for reports of a disorderly person.

White was arrested by police and then taken to the hospital in "respiratory distress," according to the Cumberland County Prosecutor's Office. He became unresponsive en route to the hospital and was later pronounced dead at Inspira Medical Center Vineland.

What happened on Grape Street in under investigation by the prosecutor's office, although witnesses have claimed to media outlets that White was beaten by police officers and bitten by a police dog.

Benedetto's lawfirm also represents the family of Jerame Reid, who was shot and killed by Bridgeton police officers on Dec. 30.

The Cumberland County Prosecutor's Office is continuing its investigation of White's death.

Anyone with information or video of the incident is asked to contact Sgt. Scott Collins by calling 856-466-5127 or SAC E. Ronald Cuff by calling 609-381-4890.

Don E. Woods may be reached at dwoods@southjerseymedia.com. Follow him on Twitter @donewoods1. Find the South Jersey Times on Facebook.