Merseyside Police released a statement after an investigation was launched into the death of a man in custody.
The Independent Office for Police Conduct (IOPC) is probing the death of a 44-year-old man. The man had been approached by Merseyside Police on Scotland Road at around 9.45pm on Tuesday, March 14 before being taken into custody at St Anne Street Police Station
The man stayed in a cell overnight and at around 5pm on Wednesday police staff were made aware he was on the floor and required medical attention. Paramedics were called and the man was taken to hospital where he was confirmed dead.
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Following a mandatory referral from Merseyside Police, the IOPC declared an independent probe at 8.20pm on March 15. The police watchdog sent investigators to the custody suite to begin reviewing evidence by obtaining CCTV and body-worn video footage. The IOPC has also been in touch with Merseyside Police about receiving initial accounts from the officers involved.
IOPC Regional Director Catherine Bates said: "This was a tragic incident in which a man has sadly died and our thoughts are with his family and loved ones. Merseyside Police referred this matter to us, and as he was in the custody of police at the time he 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 man on the street, and what happened after he arrived at the custody suite. We have made contact with his family to explain our role and will update them as our enquiries progress."
Merseyside Police has now released a statement and say they are "fully co-operating" with IOPC.
A spokesperson from Merseyside Police said: "We are aware that the Independent Office for Police Conduct (IOPC) is investigating the death of a 44-year-old man in police custody in Liverpool on Wednesday 15 March. The force’s Professional Standards Department mandatorily referred the matter to the IOPC following the sad news that that the man had passed away and we are fully co-operating with their investigation team.
"His next of kin have been informed and Merseyside Police would like to offer its condolences to the family for their loss."
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