Convicted rapist & kidnapper Ariel Castro is dead.

The 53-year-old was found hanged in his cell at Orient, Ohio's Correction Reception Center at 9:20 p.m. ET Tuesday, according to the Ohio Department of Rehabilitation and Correction spokesperson JoEllen Smith.

The admitted sexual predator, who is believed to have committed suicide, was being held in protective custody, Smith said, adding that prisoners are checked on every half-hour.

"A thorough review of this incident is underway and more information can be provided as it becomes available pending th