NPCC welcomes review into deaths in custody

National Police Chiefs' Council Lead on Custody, Deputy Chief Constable Nicholas Ephgrave said:

"There has been significant work by the police to ensure safer detention of people in custody. In statistics from 2013/14, the number of deaths in custody had more than halved since 2004/5 (36 to 11). We are disappointed that figures for 2014/15 show the first rise in five years with 17 people dying in or following police detention.

“Any death in these circumstances is a tragedy and we want to do everything we can to prevent it happening. We welcome a review that aims to further reduce deaths and injuries and, if they do happen, ensure they are dealt with as quickly as possible with loved ones getting the support they need. We will work with the review team when announced."