Police officers investigated over custody death
BBCThe police watchdog has launched an investigation into the death of a man who was found unresponsive in a police station cell.
The Independent Office for Police Conduct (IOPC) said two Lincolnshire Police officers, an acting sergeant and a PC, are being investigated for potential gross misconduct and alleged unlawful act manslaughter.
It followed an incident where a 37-year-old became unresponsive in a police holding cell and died in hospital on 2 December 2025.
A Lincolnshire Police spokesperson said the force would not be commenting as it was an ongoing investigation by the IOPC.
The 37-year-old man was arrested at his home in Lincoln at about 00:50 GMT on 2 December for suspected misuse of the 999 system.
The IOPC said the officers used force and PAVA spray during the arrest.
The man was then handcuffed and taken to South Park police station, Lincoln, in a caged police van, the watchdog added.
After the man became unresponsive in the holding cell, officers gave him CPR before he was taken to hospital where he was pronounced dead at 08:40.
Lincolnshire Police referred the death to the IOPC. The watchdog also received three complaints from members of the man's family relating to the officers' actions.
The IOPC said nine officers were involved in the man's arrest and detention, and, following an assessment of their actions, two would be investigated for potential breaches of police professional standards.
The watchdog said it would investigate the actions of the officers at the man's home, their decision to take him to a police station instead of a hospital, and his time in custody.
Emily Barry, director of engagement at the IOPC, said: "My condolences go to the man's family and friends for their loss."
She added: "It's important we understand exactly what happened from the moment he was arrested."
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