Custody death inquiry completed

An independent investigation into the death of a man who collapsed in police custody has found there were a number of errors in the way he was treated.

Frank Morris, 47, from Widnes, Cheshire, was arrested on suspicion of assault on 14 May 2007.

He was found unconscious at a custody suite in Runcorn and taken to hospital, but later died.

The Independent Police Complaints Commission (IPCC) has recommended improving training for custody staff.

I am sure lessons have been learned from this incident Naseem Malik, IPCC

As a result of the investigation, one sergeant has received a written warning and five sergeants and three detention officers have received words of advice.

The IPCC has also made a series of recommendations to Cheshire Constabulary aimed at improving training for custody staff, reinforcing existing policies and procedures and improving the recording of information about detainees.

Naseem Malik, IPCC Commissioner for the North West, said: "Mr Morris had a history of ill health linked to his alcohol problems.

"Cheshire Constabulary officers found themselves in an all-too familiar situation - dealing with a detainee who had been arrested on suspicion of committing an offence while in drink.

"It is unlikely that the officers tasked with dealing with Mr Morris that night could have done anything different which would have altered the course of events.

"Although checks were not conducted correctly, Mr Morris would appear to have been well up until his collapse that morning."

She added: "However, policies and procedures exist for a reason and it is clear they were not observed during Mr Morris's time in custody.

"My sympathies go out to Mr Morris's family and friends and I am sure lessons have been learned from this incident."