Investigation under way into death of man in custody in Torquay
Factual summary of a published IOPC investigation, covering the incident, key findings and outcome.
All IOPC reports
- Published
- 2020-06-08
- Investigation type
- independent
- Force involved
- Devon & Cornwall Police
What was investigated
An investigation is ongoing into the death of a man found unresponsive in a custody suite in Torquay. The man was arrested prior to being found and was subsequently pronounced dead after medical assistance was sought.
Key findings
- The man was found unresponsive in his cell.
- An ambulance was called, but he was pronounced dead.
- He was arrested around 00.45 am on the same day.
- The investigation follows a mandatory referral from the police.
- Evidence and statements are being gathered from officers.
- CCTV footage from the custody suite is being analyzed.
- Preliminary post-mortem examination did not identify a cause of death.
- An inquest has been opened and adjourned.
Outcome
The investigation is ongoing, and findings will be shared to highlight any learning.
Related on BlueLineHub
- Accountability hub — how oversight of UK policing works
- IOPC outcomes & learning feed
- Devon & Cornwall Police force profile
Reviewed by the BlueLineHub Editorial Team
Last reviewed: 13 July 2026 · Next review due: 13 January 2027
This is a factual summary of a report published by the Independent Office for Police Conduct. Individuals are referred to exactly as the source report anonymises them. BlueLineHub is independent and not affiliated with the IOPC · Summarised 2026-07-13.