Man becomes unwell in custody - West Midlands Police, February 2018

On 18 February 2018, West Midlands Police arrested a man and took him into custody. He was placed on level 1 observations with hourly checks. He subsequently tested positive for opiates, and remained on level 1 observations. During a cell check the following morning, the man was found to be unresponsive. Attempts to revive him were successful and he was transferred to hospital, where he was discharged the next day.

Our investigators interviewed the officers who had contact with the man. They reviewed CCTV footage from the custody suite and the man’s custody record, and also reviewed relevant policies and legislation.

On the basis of the evidence gathered during this investigation, it appears that the actions taken by the police and medical staff in response to man’s respiratory attack were prompt, professional and effective. The vital actions in response to man’s sudden collapse were taken in a co-ordinated and effective manner.

At the end of the investigation, based on the evidence available, we found no indication that any person serving with the police may have behaved in a manner that would justify the bringing of disciplinary proceedings, or had committed a criminal offence.

After reviewing our report the force agreed. They also advised that they would review their custody policy to clarify the level of observations in the circumstances of a detainee testing positive for drugs.