Police watchdog to investigate Merseyside Police custody death

Merseyside Police said the man had been arrested in Rainhill and taken to Belle Vale custody suite, where he became ill

The death of a man who fell ill while in custody is being investigated, the police watchdog has confirmed.

The Independent Office for Police Conduct (IOPC) said it had received a "mandatory referral" from Merseyside Police after the 35-year-old's death on 14 March.

The IOPC said the man was arrested on suspicion of driving and drugs offences at about 04:00 GMT on 13 March.

It said he became ill in a cell and died in hospital about 24 hours later.

Merseyside Police said the man had been arrested in Rainhill on suspicion of drug-driving, failing to stop, possession of controlled Class A and B drugs and possession with intent to supply a controlled Class A drug.

'Establish the facts'

A representative said the man "suffered a medical episode" while in Belle Vale custody suite and was found unconscious during a welfare check at about 08:40 GMT.

"Officers and staff administered first aid and he was taken to hospital in a serious condition," they said.

They said the man died at about 04:15 on 14 March and as a result, the force's professional standards department referred the matter to the IOPC.

The IOPC said an "independent investigation" had begun into what happened.

Regional director Catherine Bates said the IOPC's thoughts were "first and foremost... with the man's family and loved ones, as well as all those affected by his death".

"When someone dies after being taken into custody, it is important for there to be a thorough investigation to understand what has happened," she said.

"Our role now will be to establish the facts and our findings will be shared with the man's family, Merseyside Police and the coroner in due course."