Two Officers Scrutinised After Man Dies in Wigan Custody
Two police officers face gross misconduct probes following the death of 26-year-old Ellis Rocks while in custody in Wigan. The Independent Office for Police Conduct (IOPC) confirmed the investigation is underway.
Tragic Custody Death at Britannia Hotel
Ellis Rocks was arrested on the evening of Thursday, 31 July at the Britannia Hotel on Almond Brook Road, Standish. He was handcuffed and searched before being taken to a custody suite just after 8.30pm.
In the early hours of 1 August, around 2.30am, detention officers found Mr Rocks unresponsive on the floor. An ambulance was called immediately, and he was rushed to hospital, where he sadly died on 3 August.
IOPC Launches Misconduct Investigation
The IOPC revealed two Greater Manchester Police officers are suspected of gross misconduct, with three others under investigation for possible misconduct breaches. The watchdog stressed the inquiry is in its early stages.
They are reviewing CCTV from the custody suite and body-worn camera footage from the arrest. Importantly, no concerns have yet been raised about any use of force.
Amanda Rowe, IOPC regional director, said: “We have been in contact with Mr Rocks’s family to update them on the progress of our investigation. Our thoughts remain with all family and friends affected by his death. “Although several officers have been notified of investigations, this does not mean disciplinary action will automatically follow. We will determine the next steps after thoroughly examining all evidence. “It’s crucial that we carry out an independent and detailed investigation to uncover the full circumstances surrounding this incident.”
Police Address Speculation Surrounding Arrest
Greater Manchester Police revealed Mr Rocks was arrested on suspicion of drug offences and linked to an assault investigation in London. They firmly denied any connection to protests or asylum seeker accommodation at the hotel.
The IOPC investigation remains ongoing as authorities seek the full truth behind this tragic death in custody.
