A 46-year-old woman has died after becoming unwell while in police custody in Chester. The woman died in hospital on Tuesday, August 4, following her arrest and detention by Cheshire Constabulary.
Events leading to death
Cheshire Constabulary first received a call from A&E staff at the Countess of Chester Hospital at around 5.30pm on Monday, August 3. Staff had requested assistance with the woman, who had become unwell. Officers attended the hospital and assisted the woman into a taxi to return home after she was discharged by hospital staff.
Just before 7pm, police received a second call from neighbours who had reported a disturbance outside their homes. Officers attended and arrested the woman before taking her to West Cheshire Custody Suite in Blacon, Chester. She arrived at the custody suite shortly before 8pm.
Return to hospital and death
After being seen by a healthcare practitioner, she was taken back to hospital. The woman later returned to custody in the early hours of Tuesday, August 4. She subsequently became unwell and paramedics were called. The woman became unresponsive at around 10.40am and was taken to hospital, where she later died.
Independent investigation
The Independent Office for Police Conduct (IOPC) has launched an independent investigation into the circumstances surrounding her death. The watchdog said its investigation began following a mandatory referral from Cheshire Constabulary on Wednesday, August 5. IOPC investigators attended the custody suite and began reviewing evidence, including CCTV and body-worn video footage.
IOPC director of engagement, Amanda Rowe said: “This was a tragic incident in which a woman has sadly died and our thoughts are with her family and loved ones. Cheshire Constabulary referred this matter to us, and as she was in the custody of police at the time she became unwell, it is important there is a thorough and independent investigation. We will examine all relevant matters including the interaction officers had with the woman prior to and after she arrived at the custody suite. We have made contact with her family to explain our role and will update them as our enquiries progress.”
