Referral made to CPS over death of a man in Greater Manchester
The Independent Office for Police Conduct (IOPC) has made a referral to the Crown Prosecution Service (CPS) following its investigation into the circumstances of the death of a 20-year-old man shortly after he was arrested by police in Leigh, Greater Manchester.
Jack Higham was detained by officers near to Mill Lane on Thursday February 9, 2023, after they were responding to reports of an assault.
Following Mr Higham’s arrest, he became seriously unwell. Officers began CPR and called an ambulance. Mr Higham received medical treatment from paramedics but died at the scene.
The IOPC received a mandatory referral from Greater Manchester Police (GMP) due to the fact Mr Higham had been detained by officers prior to becoming unwell.
In January 2024, six GMP officers were notified they were under criminal investigation for possible offences of gross negligence manslaughter and misconduct in public office.
The officers, along with five other officers, were also served with gross misconduct notices for potential breaches of police standards of professional behaviour.
“Our independent investigation looked at the actions and decision-making of the police, including the force used to restrain Mr Higham and the level of care provided to him when he became unwell,” the IOPC said.
A post-mortem has taken place and the results of further tests are awaited. A Coroner’s inquest was opened and adjourned on January 3, 2024.
IOPC Director of Engagement Amanda Rowe said: “I extend my sincere condolences to the family and friends of Mr Higham for their loss.
“We refer cases to the CPS if our investigations indicate a criminal offence may have been committed. It does not mean criminal charges will necessarily follow. We will now await a CPS decision on this matter.”