IPCC investigation into Elland Road custody death continues

Following his arrest by West Yorkshire Police officers at around 9.30am on Sunday May 11, Mr Rice, 46, was taken to Elland Road police station, and placed in a cell in the custody suite.

He was found to be unresponsive when checked in his cell at 7am on Monday May 12, and despite attempts to resuscitate him, he was confirmed dead around 45 minutes later.

IPCC investigators have now served a misconduct notice on one police officer, and gross misconduct staff notices on two detention officers advising them that their conduct is subject to investigation. Interviews will take place in the near future.

The results of a post mortem examination conducted on May 13 were inconclusive. The IPCC is awaiting further medical reports.

CCTV from the custody suite which was seized after Mr Rice’s death has been examined by IPCC investigators, and a number of witness statements have also been obtained to assist the investigation.

An inquest was opened and adjourned at Wakefield Coroner’s Court on Thursday May 22.