Police watchdog launches investigation as woman dies in custody after shoplifting arrest

The police watchdog has launched an investigation after a woman died while in custody in Nottingham. The 34-year-old was arrested along with a man on suspicion of shoplifting on Wednesday (October 30) evening and taken to the city's custody suite in Radford Road, Basford.

The following day, at 10.30pm, the woman was found unresponsive during a cell check and pronounced dead shortly after, the Independent Office for Police Conduct (IOPC) said. She had been due to appear in court on November 1.

The IOPC, which received a mandatory referral from Nottinghamshire Police, has launched an investigation into the contact police and staff had in the days prior to the woman's death. The watchdog said it had already sent investigators to the custody suite to gather evidence and accounts from officers.

Regional director Derrick Campbell said: “Our thoughts are with the woman’s family and loved ones, as well as all those affected by her death. As she was in police custody when she became unwell, we are required to carry out an investigation into the circumstances and that will include looking at the actions and decisions of the police officers and staff involved.

“We will keep the woman’s family and Nottinghamshire Police updated on our progress.” Inquiries so far have included gathering custody records, police body worn footage and custody suite CCTV for review.

A post-mortem was carried out last Friday, November 1, with further tests being conducted. The coroner has been informed.