Investigation is launched after black man dies in police custody in Devon
- Simeon Francis, 35, was found unresponsive in his cell at Torquay Police Station
- An ambulance was called on Wednesday, May 20, but he was pronounced dead
- The Independent Office for Police Conduct has launched a probe into his deathÂ
The Independent Office for Police Conduct is looking into the death of Simeon Francis, 35, who was found unresponsive in his cell
An investigation has been launched after a black man died in police custody in Devon.
The Independent Office for Police Conduct is looking into the death of Simeon Francis, 35, who was found unresponsive in his cell.
An ambulance was called at around 6pm on Wednesday, May 20, but he was pronounced dead.
The IOPC said it was continuing its probe and has been gathering evidence from officers and reviewing CCTV.
Mr Francis was arrested at around 12.45am the same day in Cowley Bridge Road, Exeter, Devon, and then transported by police van to Torquay Police Station where he was booked into custody at around 3am.
The IOPC says its investigation follows a mandatory referral from Devon and Cornwall Police.
Regional Director Catrin Evans said: ‘Our thoughts are with Mr Francis’ family and friends following his death. We will be keeping his family updated during the course of our independent investigation.
‘Our investigators have begun gathering evidence and statements from officers. We are analysing a considerable amount of CCTV footage from the custody suite.
Mr Francis was arrested at around 12.45am the same day in Cowley Bridge Road, Exeter, Devon, and then transported by police van to Torquay Police Station (pictured) where he was booked into custody at around 3am
‘We are looking at the level of care provided during the period of detention, including the frequency and adequacy of checks carried out.’
The IOPC added: ‘When someone dies in police custody or following police contact, the force involved must refer the matter to us to assess whether we should investigate what has happened.
‘Our role is to seek answers about what happened and share any learning highlighted by our investigations.’
The coroner has been informed and a preliminary post-mortem examination has been held, which did not identify a cause of death. Further tests will now be carried out.
An inquest was opened and adjourned by a coroner in Plymouth on Friday June 5.