IOPC investigates police response after man's death in Stoke
The Independent Office for Police Conduct (IOPC) has launched an independent investigation into the police response to the death of a man who became seriously unwell in Stoke-on-Trent last month.
Staffordshire Police officers were called to London Road, near Sainsbury’s supermarket, on the morning of June 14 following reports of a man running between vehicles and appearing to be in distress.
According to the IOPC, officers attempted to restrain the man, who subsequently became unwell. He was taken to hospital by ambulance, where he later died.
The police watchdog said Staffordshire Police referred the incident because it involved a death following police contact. The IOPC declared an independent investigation on June 16.
IOPC director Derrick Campbell said investigators had already secured body-worn video footage, CCTV and witness accounts.
“Our thoughts are with the man’s family and everyone affected by his death,” he said. “It is important that an independent investigation is carried out to establish the full circumstances surrounding this incident and determine whether the actions and decisions of the police officers involved were appropriate.”
The IOPC said investigators would examine the nature of the officers’ interaction with the man, including the force used to restrain him, the welfare checks and medical assistance provided, and whether national and local policies and procedures were followed.