NCJ Number
162907
Journal
Focus on Police Research and Development Issue: 7 Dated: (March 1996) Pages: 46-47
Editor(s)
B Gresty
Date Published
1996
Length
2 pages
Annotation
Information about deaths in police custody in Great Britain between 1989 and 1994 were examined to determine the possible existence of patterns and trends, especially with respect to hangings involving the cell door hatch.
Abstract
Results revealed no specific trend. The small number of deaths by hanging in custody was so small that interpretation was difficult. However, cell door hatches were either definitely or possibly used in 31 of the 36 hanging deaths in cells during 1991-94. The ligature used in 21 of the 42 cases in cells or elsewhere was shoelaces, belts, or coat cords. Nine persons used clothing, 10 used bedding, and the method for the other two was not recorded. Findings indicated that identifying more precisely those at risk will be difficult. Although removing belts and other items may reduce the number of deaths by hanging, most persons would find alternative ligatures. Finally, it is clear that open cell door hatches can provide a fastening point for a ligature. The Home Office's Central Building Services Unit recommends that hatches remain shut, but the final decision appears to be at the custody officer's discretion. Closed door hatches may introduce problems from a lack of ventilation. Thus, custody staff should be alert to the potential risk of suicide presented by open hatches. Tables