Gabriela Kosilko: Police face criminal probe over murder suspect's death

Police found a body, believed to be Gabriela Kosilko's, on 6 September

Three police officers and four staff are under criminal investigation over the death of a murder suspect who was found unresponsive in his cell.

Sebastian Zarnoch, 30, died at Keyham Lane Police Station on 6 September.

He had been arrested on suspicion of kidnapping and murdering 26-year-old Gabriela Kosilko.

The Independent Office for Police Conduct (IOPC) said it was investigating possible offences of misconduct in public office.

Mr Zarnoch was initially arrested on 3 September following the disappearance of Ms Kosilko and was detained while inquiries continued.

He was found unresponsive in his cell three days later, just after 10:00 BST, and pronounced dead a short time later.

The IOPC said all seven Leicestershire Police officers and staff, who dealt with Mr Zarnoch before his death, had been advised they were under criminal investigation.

Three police officers have been served with gross misconduct notices for potential breaches of police standards for professional behaviour.

The IOPC has said the four staff members have been advised they are to be made subject of a disciplinary investigation.

Sebastian Zarnoch, 30, died after being found unresponsive at Keyham Lane Police Station

The conduct notices relate to the level of risk assessments and supervision involving Mr Zarnoch and whether the observations and cell checks carried out on him were in line with relevant policy and procedure.

The serving of notices does not necessarily mean criminal charges or disciplinary proceedings will follow, the IOPC added.

A post-mortem examination was held on 11 September and the results of further tests are awaited.

IOPC regional director for the West Midlands, Derrick Campbell, said: "We have been in contact with Mr Zarnoch's family to express our sympathy and explain our role.

"Following the conclusion of our investigation, we will decide whether to refer the matter to the Crown Prosecution Service for a charging decision and we will determine whether any officer should face disciplinary proceedings."

A Leicestershire Police spokesperson said: "Given the IOPC investigation, which we continue to support, remains ongoing it would inappropriate for us to comment further at this stage."