Former film actor Jason Hoganson died from natural causes and drug use after his early release from prison, a coroner has found. The 55-year-old was photographed raising a thumb up as he was released from HMP Durham in September 2024, and was one of hundreds of prisoners released early in a bid to cut jail overcrowding.
He had served half of an 18-month jail sentence for assaulting his ex-partner and breaching a restraining order. The following day he was arrested in Newcastle's West End after going to his ex-partner's flat and slapping her.
Background and death
Hoganson, from Elswick, had a leading role as a drifter called Pete in the 1987 cult film Empire State, but drink, drugs and crime prevented his career from taking off. Later in life, he became a well known face in Newcastle, partly due to his heavily tattooed face and head.
Newcastle Coroner's Court was told that Hoganson was found dead at his accommodation on April 4. The inquest heard that he had a long history of alcohol and drug abuse. His death was due to bronco-pneumonia, with drug addiction a significant contributory factor, a post-mortem examination found. Mr Hoganson had a rough-sleeping key worker who described his engagement with the services as 'erratic', partly due to him being homeless.
Coroner's conclusion
Coroner Georgina Nolan gave a narrative conclusion to Mr Hoganson's death, saying he died due to natural causes and drug use. She passed on her condolences to the father-of-five's family and friends.
After Mr Hoganson's death, his family spoke to ChronicleLive, saying that they were proud of the man he was and how he helped others living on the streets; despite his problems.
