Police watchdog investigates death of man arrested at Leeds hospital

The 46-year-old, who was wanted on a warrant over theft allegations, was arrested by West Yorkshire Police officers at Leeds General Infirmary on Sunday night and taken to the new Elland Road police station.

The Independent Police Complaints Commission (IPCC) said he was found unresponsive when checked in his cell at 7am the following day.

Despite attempts to resuscitate him, the man was confirmed dead around 45 minutes later.

The IPCC received a referral from West Yorkshire Police and immediately declared an independent investigation.

Investigators were deployed to the scene and are continuing their inquiries today.

The result of a post mortem examination yesterday was inconclusive and further tests are being carried out. The coroner has been informed.

IPCC investigators are gathering initial accounts from officers and recovering CCTV footage from the custody suite.

IPCC Commissioner Cindy Butts said: “Any death in custody is a very serious matter, and we have begun an independent investigation to determine the full circumstances.

“We will be carrying out a thorough investigation into the man’s contact with police after he was arrested, and the treatment he received while in custody.

“We are in the process of making contact with the man’s relatives, and my thoughts are with the family at this difficult time.”

The IPCC said the man had been taken to hospital by ambulance after a report from a member of the public but had discharged himself after treatment.

He was still on hospital grounds when he was arrested.

West Yorkshire Police are investigating the circumstances surrounding his movements prior to him being found and taken to hospital.

The force said it was co-operating with the IPCC’s investigation.