WIREDGOV

We are investigating Staffordshire Police contact prior to the death of a man who was detained following a series of incidents at Packmoor.

We understand that Joshua Ball, who was 26 and from Packmoor, was detained near High Street by officers on the afternoon of Monday 28 May (2018) after several disturbances in that area and a call to police from West Midlands Ambulance Service.

Mr Ball was taken by ambulance to hospital but sadly died there shortly before 6.30pm that day.

Following a referral from Staffordshire Police we declared an independent investigation on 1 June. Evidence gathered by our investigators so far includes police body worn video footage.

IOPC Regional Director Derrick Campbell said: “We have a duty to investigate the circumstances and in particular the contact police had with Mr Ball before his death.

“I would like to send my condolences to Mr Ball’s family at this difficult and sad time for them. We have met with some family members to explain our role and we will keep them regularly updated during our enquiries.”

Staffordshire Police are continuing to separately investigate the incidents reported to them before Mr Ball’s detention.