Man dies after becoming unwell in custody at Sunderland police station

The 55-year-old was taken to Southwick Police Station at about 10pm on Sunday after being arrested by officers in Sunderland.On Monday morning he became unwell and received medical attention by custody staff.An ambulance was called and he was taken to hospital by paramedics.

He received further medical treatment at hospital where he remained in a critical condition before he sadly passed away yesterday.The death has now been referred to the Independent Office of Police Conduct (IOPC), as is required in circumstances such as these, and the coroner has also been informed.

The IOPC has since said it made the decision it does not need to probe the circumstances.A Northumbria Police spokesperson said: "Our thoughts are with the man’s family at this extremely difficult time.”

IOPC spokesperson said: “Northumbria Police referred the matter to us and we sent investigators to the scene to conduct an assessment.

"Once there, they reviewed CCTV footage from the custody suite and relevant documentation.

"Our investigators reported no conduct issues with regard to the actions of the officers in dealing with the man who became ill.

"As such, we have decided that an independent investigation is not required and have referred the matter back to the force for a local investigation.”