Six officers may face charges after a 20-year-old man died following an arrest in Leigh, Greater Manchester.
The police watchdog, IOPC, shared an update, stating that the six officers were told last year that they faced a criminal investigation involving possible gross negligence manslaughter plus misconduct.
Jack Higham, age 20, was arrested in February 2023 in Leigh, near Wigan. Greater Manchester Police (GMP) made the arrest in response to an assault report.
After his arrest, Higham became very ill. Officers started CPR and called for an ambulance. Paramedics tried to help Higham; sadly, he died at the scene.
The IOPC sent findings to the CPS concerning the police’s actions. The CPS will decide if charges are filed. The IOPC said the officers were notified in January 2024 regarding potential manslaughter and misconduct.
Besides the six, five more officers got notices involving gross misconduct. It relates to professional behavior standards. The police officers’ names remain private.
Sending the case to the CPS is not a guarantee that criminal charges will follow. An inquest into Higham’s death started and was then paused.
The IOPC investigated the police, checking decisions and force used. The inquiry examined care for Higham. A post-mortem examination occurred, and further test results are still needed.
The IOPC sends condolences to Higham’s family and refers cases for possible criminal acts. The CPS will decide what happens next.
GMP cooperates with the investigation fully. These alleged offenses appear serious. They await the CPS decision before commenting more and support the officers involved.