A JURY has returned a narrative verdict of ‘misadventure and cocaine-induced excited delirium’ at the inquest into the death of Jacob Michael.
The four-week hearing concluded today.
However, they said failings in police care including failures in training and a failure to get medical assistance may have allowed the 25-year-old, of Lacey Street, Widnes, to die.
Mr Michael died at Runcorn Custody Suite shortly after officers arrested near his home in August last year.
Jurors heard that the deceased had dialled 999 from his home then refused to let police in his bedroom. It was alleged he also threatened them with a hammer and was struck with batons and pepper spray before being taken to the custody suite.
Jurors had watched footage of his detainment into the police van and heard evidence from witnesses who described his arrest.
Audio footage revealed that the Widnes man had apologised and pleaded with officers.
At an earlier hearing Dr Rupert Evans, a consultant in emergency medicine, said cocaine-induced irregular heart rhythms killed Mr Michael. The inquest also heard that doctors had warned the deceased that the Class A could kill him. He had been hospitalised twice before after taking the drug.
Speaking after the hearing, Kate Maynard, solicitor, said Mr Michael’s family maintain that they believe the arrest and detainment of Mr Michael had contributed to his death.
Cheshire police said it would put in place recommendations to better safeguard those detained in its care.
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