An independent review into serious incidents and deaths in custody has been published today. Undertaken by Dame Elish Angiolini, the report, that began its work in October 2015, recommends broad reforms to policing practice, the justice system and the health service in England and Wales. In total there are 110 recommendations that aim to reduce the risk of individuals dying in custody and to ensure that where such incidents do occur, the procedures in place for investigating the death are effective and command public confidence. The recommendations include avoiding the use of cells to hold those detained under mental health powers, the avoidance of restraint and, where a death occurs in custody, the provision of immediate free, non-means tested, legal advice and representation to the family. The full report can be seen here. Karon Monaghan QC was part of the Reference Group for the review along with Raju Bhatt and Chief Constable Nick Ephgrave.
Independent review into serious incidents and deaths in custody published
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