The family of Sheku Bayoh has accused Scotland's police and prosecutors of a 'desperate final act of sabotage' after Lord Bracadale resigned as chair of the inquiry into his death in custody. At a press conference on Tuesday, the family claimed the former high court judge had been 'forced out' by what they called the 'unholy trinity' of the solicitor general, the deputy chief prosecutor, and the chief constable of Police Scotland, supported by the Scottish Police Federation.
Bayoh, 31, died in handcuffs after officers responded to reports of a man brandishing a knife in Kirkcaldy, Fife, in May 2015. His family believe his death was caused by positional asphyxia due to restraint tactics, alleging racial bias. A pathologist told the inquiry that the struggle while held by at least six officers should be considered a major cause of death.
The inquiry, which began in 2020 and has cost over £26m, was thrown into chaos by Bracadale's resignation. He faced a judicial review brought by the federation over claims of apparent bias after holding private meetings with Bayoh's family. Bracadale rejected the claims, but in his resignation letter to Deputy First Minister Kate Forbes, he said concerns about his conduct had not been allayed.
Speaking on behalf of the family, lawyer Aamer Anwar said the episode exposed 'double standards' and called on Solicitor General Ruth Charteris to reverse the decision not to prosecute the officers involved. Bayoh's sister, Kadi Johnson, praised Bracadale's 'courage' and commitment to hearing affected voices.
David Threadgold, chair of the federation, said he looked forward to a new chair bringing the inquiry to a conclusion. He described the federation's legal challenges as part of due process.
