Watchdog finds police restraints used on man who later died were ‘reasonable’

An investigation by the Independent Office for Police Conduct (IOPC) has determined that the restraints employed by South Wales Police officers on a man, Leighton Jones, before his death were deemed reasonable. The verdict was announced following a three-day inquest at Pontypridd Coroner’s Court, where the jury returned a narrative outcome on November 13. Mr. Jones, a 30-year-old father who tragically passed away during a cardiac arrest after being detained by the police and consuming drugs moments earlier, was described by his family as a vibrant individual.

Leighton Jones spent the evening of June 18, 2021, with friends before they departed, and he proceeded to use cocaine, as revealed during the jury inquest. Witnesses testified that Mr. Jones displayed erratic behavior at a fuel station near his residence, prompting concerns among onlookers. The situation escalated when the police arrived at the scene and detained Mr. Jones, who appeared to be in distress. Despite efforts to assist him, Mr. Jones could not be revived and tragically perished on the spot.
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Dr. Stephen Leadbeatter, a senior lecturer in forensic pathology at Cardiff University, conducted an examination and highlighted the presence of a high level of cocaine in Mr. Jones’ system, identifying it as a significant factor in his demise. The coroner declared cocaine toxicity as the cause of death, with the jury attributing Mr. Jones’ passing to drug-related issues. Despite initial concerns raised by family members and friends regarding the police’s actions that night, the inquest concluded that the officers’ conduct did not directly contribute to Mr. Jones’ death.

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In response to the findings, the IOPC released a statement acknowledging the challenging circumstances faced by the police officers and affirming that their actions were deemed reasonable and proportionate. The IOPC’s investigation, initiated in June 2021 following a referral from South Wales Police, aimed to scrutinize the events leading up to Mr. Jones’ death and determine the role of the officers involved. The IOPC director for Wales, David Ford, expressed condolences to Mr. Jones’ family and emphasized the thoroughness of the investigation, which involved multiple witness statements and the analysis of various forms of evidence.

The tragic loss of Leighton Jones left his family and loved ones devastated, as they fondly remembered him as a caring father, partner, and son. Their heartfelt statements reflected the immense grief and void left by his untimely passing. Moving forward, the IOPC’s detailed report will aid the coroner in establishing a comprehensive understanding of the circumstances surrounding Mr. Jones’ death. The collaborative efforts of all involved parties aim to provide clarity and closure to those affected by this distressing event.

As the community processes the outcomes of the inquest, the focus remains on honouring Leighton Jones’ memory and supporting his bereaved family during this challenging period. The IOPC’s commitment to transparency and accountability underscores the importance of addressing such incidents with diligence and sensitivity. The tragic loss of a cherished individual serves as a poignant reminder of the need for ongoing vigilance in ensuring the welfare and safety of all members of society.