Self-inflicted wound in custody - West Midlands Police, April 2019

West Midlands Police (WMP) officers arrested a man at his home on suspicion of wounding and common assault. He was transported to custody and some hours later, whilst in a cell, he appeared to have suffered a self-inflicted wound to his stomach.

WMP referred the matter to us as is usual when someone is injured after contact with police.

Our investigators attended the scene and conducted a detailed examination of the cell. We obtained statements from the officers who arrested and searched the man. Officers’ body-worn camera footage, CCTV footage and custody records were obtained and analysed.

During the investigation there was no indication any police officer may have behaved in a manner that would justify the bringing of disciplinary proceedings or committed a criminal offence.

We identified potential learning around the location of the metal detector arch.