The police watchdog has launched an investigation into the death of an autistic man in Salford who became unresponsive after he was restrained with handcuffs by officers responding to a report of concern for his welfare.
The Independent Office for Police Conduct (IOPC) said on Friday that they would be investigating the circumstances surrounding the death of Ricky Swindells, 28, at a property on Duchy Road.
Officers from Greater Manchester Police were called to an address in the city on July 24 after receiving a report of a concern for Mr Swindells’ welfare, the IOPC said.
During the phone call, Mr Swindells’ family reportedly told officers that he was autistic and in “significant distress”.
At the property, police used handcuffs to restrain Mr Swindells, with body-worn footage showing officers say “this was done for his own safety”, the IOPC said.
Mr Swindells became unresponsive and received medical treatment at the scene. He was taken to hospital where he died on July 25.
The cause of his death has not yet been confirmed, the police watchdog said.
GMP said they were “supporting an independent investigation” into the death of a man who was “restrained by officers responding to a report by family members of a man in crisis”.
The force said that response officers were called at 7.40pm after receiving reports that the man was having a potential mental episode and had been violent.
They said the man was “presenting as in crisis on the floor”, and appeared to be in distress.
The force said the man was placed in handcuffs for his own safety, and that while detained, officers worked to try to calm the incident.
IOPC director of engagement Amanda Rowe said: “Our thoughts are with Mr Swindells’ family and loved ones, as well as all those affected by his death.
“Our investigation will be entirely independent of the police and ensure we understand events surrounding his detention. We will carefully examine the actions and decision-making of officers involved – including the restraint used in this case.
“This was clearly an extremely distressing incident and our investigation will be thorough to help establish the facts and get answers to the family’s questions. Our findings will be shared with the coroner in due course.”
GMP Assistant Chief Constable Steph Parker said: “This is a really distressing time for all concerned – particularly the family of the man who has sadly passed away after this incident. We are doing what we can to establish what happened to answer any questions they will have.
“Our officers attended to try to help what was a complex and challenging circumstance. We are ensuring they are getting the support they need at this time.
“It is vital that a proper investigation, independent of the police, is able to be carried out.
“We are fully assisting with the IOPC’s inquiries and are committed to accountability to help ensure the facts are established.”
By Georgia Bates, Press Association
