Police Watchdog Investigates Death of Man in Custody

The Independent Office for Police Conduct (IOPC) has initiated an investigation following the death of a man while in police custody. The individual, identified as Ellis Rocks, was detained by officers from Greater Manchester Police (GMP) at the Britannia Hotel in Standish, Wigan, around 8:35 PM on Thursday, March 14, 2024.

According to the IOPC, the 26-year-old was handcuffed and searched by officers at the hotel before being transported to custody. Mr. Rocks remained in custody overnight, but around 2:30 AM on Friday, detention officers noticed he was unresponsive and lying on the floor of his cell. Emergency services were called, and after paramedics arrived, Mr. Rocks was taken to hospital. Unfortunately, he suffered a cardiac arrest en route, and resuscitation efforts were initiated. He was pronounced dead at 7:20 AM on Sunday, March 17, 2024.

In compliance with protocol, GMP referred the incident to the IOPC, prompting the deployment of investigators early Friday morning. By 10:18 AM on Sunday, an independent investigation was officially declared. The IOPC has already reviewed CCTV footage from the custody suite, as well as body-worn camera recordings from the officers involved in the arrest.

Focus on Thorough Investigation

An IOPC spokesperson expressed condolences, stating, “This was a tragic incident in which Mr. Rocks has sadly died, and our thoughts are with his family and loved ones.” They emphasized the importance of a thorough and independent investigation, noting that the inquiry will examine all interactions between officers and Mr. Rocks during his detention, as well as the circumstances following his arrival at the custody suite.

The IOPC has reached out to Mr. Rocks’ family to clarify its role in the investigation and will provide updates as the inquiry progresses. The incident has raised questions about the protocols followed during police detentions and the care provided to individuals in custody.

As the investigation unfolds, the IOPC is committed to ensuring transparency and accountability in its findings, reinforcing the necessity for comprehensive oversight in cases involving police custody and the treatment of detainees.