Investigation after death of man detained in Chesterfield

We are investigating Derbyshire Constabulary's interaction with a man who has died after a short period in custody at Chesterfield.

The 42–year-old man became unwell shortly after arriving at Chesterfield Custody Suite at about 1.30pm on Sunday 7 January following his arrest in Pleasley during a domestic incident. Just before 3pm the man was transferred by ambulance to the Chesterfield Royal Hospital where sadly he died on Wednesday night (10 January).

All deaths and serious injuries in police custody must be referred to the IOPC by law. Following the referral from Derbyshire Constabulary, IOPC investigators were deployed to the post incident procedures on Sunday.

We are reviewing CCTV footage from the custody suite and body worn video. Police officers and staff who had contact with the man or witnessed his detention have provided us with their initial accounts of the incident – and investigators have contacted the man’s family to explain our role.

A post mortem examination is due to take place tomorrow (Saturday 13 January) and HM Coroner has been notified.

IOPC Regional Director, Derrick Campbell said: “Our sympathies are with the man’s family and everyone else affected by his death. Our inquiries are at an early stage and we will be carrying out a thorough investigation into the events of Sunday.”