🚔 **Tragedy in Police Custody: Officers Sacked for Gross Misconduct** 🚔
In a heart-wrenching case, two police officers have been dismissed after failing to provide urgent medical care to a man who collapsed and died in their custody. Stephen Reardon, 34, was arrested in St Austell on suspicion of driving under the influence and was being transported to Newquay Police Station when he collapsed just minutes into the journey. Despite being visibly distressed and unresponsive, the officers did not check on him.
🚨 **The Incident Unfolds:**
– CCTV footage revealed Mr Reardon slumped to the floor and began having seizures during the nearly 40-minute ride.
– Officers called his name 63 times without receiving any response but still did not investigate further.
– Arriving at the station, Mr Reardon was unconscious and not breathing. He was pronounced dead later at the hospital.
The devastating revelation came as it was discovered through van footage that Mr Reardon had lodged a small bag into his airway on his own – an event that could have been prevented with an appropriate search and intervention.
👮 **Officers Held Accountable:**
– PC Grant Mackenzie and PC Dean Hunkin were found guilty of gross misconduct and have been sacked. Hunkin, although no longer part of the force, would have faced the same fate.
– Both officers, despite being first-aid trained, delayed vital intervention, leading to tragic consequences.
The Independent Office for Police Conduct (IOPC) highlighted the lack of action and supervision as key failures. As a result, both officers are now banned from the force, with their details submitted to the College of Policing Barred List.
Our thoughts go out to the family and friends of Mr Reardon. This case serves as a stark reminder of the critical responsibility officers hold and the trust the public places in them. The forthcoming inquest will hopefully bring more clarity and justice for the bereaved family. 🌼