WIREDGOV

The Independent Police Complaints Commission is investigating the death of a 46-year-old man in police custody in Leeds on Monday, 12 May.

At around 9.30 pm on Sunday 11 May, the man was arrested by West Yorkshire Police officers at Leeds General Infirmary on an outstanding warrant for theft offences. He was taken to Elland Road police station, and placed in a cell in the custody suite. He was found to be unresponsive when checked in his cell at 7 am on Monday 12 May, and despite attempts to resuscitate him, the man was confirmed dead around 45 minutes later.

The IPCC received a referral from West Yorkshire Police on Monday morning, and immediately declared an independent investigation. Investigators were deployed to the scene, and are continuing to carry out a number of inquiries.

The result of a post mortem examination was inconclusive and further tests are being carried out. HM Coroner has been informed. IPCC investigators are gathering initial accounts from officers and recovering CCTV footage from the custody suite.

IPCC Commissioner Cindy Butts said: "Any death in custody is a very serious matter, and we have begun an independent investigation to determine the full circumstances.

"We will be carrying out a thorough investigation into the man’s contact with police after he was arrested, and the treatment he received while in custody.

"We are in the process of making contact with the man’s relatives, and my thoughts are with the family at this difficult time.”

According to initial information, the man was taken to hospital by ambulance after a report from a member of the public. After treatment he discharged himself from Leeds General Infirmary.  West Yorkshire Police are investigating the circumstances surrounding his movements prior to him being found and taken to hospital.