Update on investigation into the death of Dalian Atkinson

Published: 09 Aug 2017
News

The Independent Police Complaints Commission’s (IPCC) investigation into the death of Dalian Atkinson in Telford last year is nearing completion.

Investigative enquiries have concluded and a final investigation report is being compiled. Three West Mercia Police officers have been interviewed under criminal caution and were earlier served with gross misconduct notices. IPCC investigators have spoken to around 15 other police officers as witnesses. Accounts have also been gained from more than 15 members of the public who witnessed events, as well as paramedics. A number of forensic experts have been consulted.

Investigators have transcribed relevant police Airwave radio transmissions and examined police policies on the use of force. Analysis of a Taser deployed during the incident has been carried out. While all investigative actions have been completed, the IPCC investigation report cannot be finalised until the full pathology and toxicology reports are provided.

Mr Atkinson died following contact with police outside an address in Meadow Close, Trench on Monday 15 August 2016.

IPCC Commissioner, Derrick Campbell, said:

“At the conclusion of our independent investigation I will consider whether to refer our investigation report to the Crown Prosecution Service to make a decision on any potential charges against police officers. A criminal investigation does not mean that criminal charges will necessarily follow.

“The report will also consider whether any officers should, in the view of the IPCC, face misconduct proceedings. We will share our finished report with HM Coroner, Mr Atkinson’s family and West Mercia Police. We have been keeping the interested parties as informed as we can throughout our enquiries. I am grateful for the patience shown by all concerned during the course of this rightly thorough investigation.”

Tags
  • West Mercia Police
  • Death and serious injury
  • Use of force and armed policing