Police watchdog probe after woman dies in custody

The investigation follows a mandatory referral from Nottinghamshire Police

The police watchdog has launched an investigation after a woman died in custody in Nottingham.

The 34-year-old woman was found unresponsive in a cell at custody suites in Radford Road at about 22:30 GMT on 31 October, the Independent Office for Police Conduct (IOPC) said.

She had been arrested the previous day and was remanded in custody to appear in court after being charged with shop theft.

The IOPC said "life-saving attempts" were made but she was pronounced dead at 23:12, prompting a mandatory referral from Nottinghamshire Police.

The watchdog said it was investigating the contact the force had with the woman before her death.

Derrick Campbell, IOPC regional director, said: "Our thoughts are with the woman's family and loved ones, as well as all those affected by her death.

"As she was in police custody when she became unwell, we are required to carry out an investigation into the circumstances and that will include looking at the actions and decisions of the police officers and staff involved.

"We will keep the woman's family and Nottinghamshire Police updated on our progress."