Investigation after man dies in police custody

A man died in police custody earlier this month, it has been revealed, prompting an investigation by the police watchdog.

The 43-year-old, who has not been named, died on 12 May after he was arrested by Greater Manchester Police (GMP) officers responding to a 999 call from a property in Rochdale.

The man had sounded unwell and requested police attendance, the force said. Officers went to the property and established he was wanted for offences relating to theft. He was arrested, assessed and detained under the Mental Health Act.

On arrival at hospital, his condition deteriorated while still in the police vehicle. He went into cardiac arrest and died a short time later, GMP said.

The Independent Office for Police Conduct's (IOPC) investigation began following a mandatory referral from GMP on13 May.

A post-mortem examination was completed on 14 May and the watchdog said it was awaiting the results of further testing.

IOPC investigators will look at police body-worn footage, will hear accounts from the arresting officers and attempt to gather CCTV footage from the hospital.

"It's important that an independent investigation is carried out to fully establish the circumstances when someone has died in police custody," IOPC director Amanda Rowe said.

"We will ensure that the man's family and the force are kept informed as our investigation progresses."

A GMP spokesperson said its "Professional Standards Directorate, as is routine in such circumstances, have referred the incident to the IOPC".

"Our thoughts are with the man's family at this devastating time."

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