Six Greater Manchester Police officers could face charges after a 20-year-old man died following his arrest.
The police watchdog, IOPC, shared an update this Wednesday. They told the six officers about the probe last year. The possible charges are gross negligence manslaughter and misconduct in public office.
Police detained Jack Higham in Wigan in February 2023. Officers responded to assault reports at that time, confirmed by the police watchdog. Mr. Higham, from Wigan, became seriously unwell after arrest.
The IOPC said officers started CPR and called for an ambulance promptly. Sadly, he died despite paramedic efforts. He was only 20 years old.
The IOPC confirmed they sent findings to the CPS. This includes evidence from their formal investigation concerning the tragic incident.
Authorities notified six officers in January 2024. They learned about an investigation for criminal offences at that time. The potential charges are serious in nature. The IOPC said the officers remain unnamed.
The IOPC also served notices to eleven officers. Six officers received criminal investigation notices, and all eleven received misconduct notices. These relate to professional standards of behaviour.
Submitting the case to the CPS doesn’t guarantee charges. An inquest started into Mr. Higham’s death, but the coroner adjourned it to a later date.
The IOPC made a referral to the Crown Prosecution Service. This followed their investigation into a man’s death shortly after police arrested him. The arrest occurred in Leigh, Greater Manchester.
Police detained Jack Higham near Mill Lane on Thursday, February 9, 2023. They were responding to assault reports. After the arrest, Mr. Higham became seriously unwell. Officers performed CPR and called for help by ambulance, but sadly, Mr. Higham died at the scene.
GMP had to report the incident to the IOPC because Mr. Higham was in custody and unwell before his passing.
Six GMP officers learned of the criminal probe in January 2024. Possible charges include manslaughter and misconduct. These officers, plus five more, got misconduct notices which relate to police standards of conduct.
The IOPC investigated police actions and decisions. This includes the force used during restraint, and the care provided to Mr. Higham. A post-mortem took place after his death, and further test results are still pending. An inquest opened on January 3, 2024, but the coroner chose to adjourn it.
Amanda Rowe offered condolences to Mr. Higham’s loved ones. The IOPC sends cases to the CPS carefully when investigations suggest crimes occurred. She stressed this doesn’t mean charges will definitely happen, and stated they are awaiting a CPS decision now.
A GMP spokesperson noted awareness of the IOPC’s update. GMP claims they are fully cooperating and acknowledge the alleged offenses are serious. GMP will await the CPS decision to comment further.
GMP is aiding the involved officers. They are offering updates and various support. The GMP Federation also contributes towards support.