Mandatory referral made to IOPC following death of man in custody

Surrey Police has completed a mandatory referral to the Independent Office for Police Conduct (IOPC) following the death of a man who became unwell in police custody last month.

A 46-year-old man, who has been formally identified as Ben Campfield, was arrested by officers on 24 July. He was subsequently charged and remanded, to appear at court on Friday 26 July.

However, whilst in a cell at Salfords custody suite, it was identified that he appeared to have had a medical episode.

Mr Campfield was given immediate first aid care and was taken to hospital for treatment, but his condition deteriorated, and he sadly passed away on 29 July.

As is mandatory for deaths following police contact, the Force immediately referred this to the IOPC who have confirmed they will conduct an independent investigation into the circumstances.

Chief Superintendent Clive Davies said: “Colleagues from Surrey Police and the NHS worked hard to try to save Mr Campfield’s life. It is very sad for everyone involved, especially family and friends, and we are co-operating fully with the IOPC investigation process.”