Police watchdog investigates seven Merseyside officers
Seven Merseyside Police officers are being investigated after a man died following a stop and search
The Independent Office for Police Conduct (IOPC) has today (Wednesday 17 August) released a statement confirming that it's investigating the conduct of seven officers involved in the stop and search of a man who later died.
Robert Evans, 59, was found dead at his home, in the Vauxhall area of Liverpool, on Sunday 3 July.
Th IOPC says Merseyside Police referred itself to the watchdog due to the fact officers had contact with Mr Evans prior to his death.
Mr Evans had been detained by officers on Eldon Street several days earlier on 28 June.
His cause of death is yet to be established and is being treated as 'unexplained'.
The IOPC says that as party of its independent investigation, door-to-door enquiries have been carried out and footage of the incident has been reviewed.
It says that based on the information available at this stage, six officers have been informed that they're being investigated for potential gross misconduct.
They have been further notified that they are also under criminal investigation for potential assault offences in relation to their use of force on Mr Evans.
The IOPC says this does not necessarily mean conduct proceedings or criminal charges will follow and the status of each officer will remain under review throughout the investigation.
A seventh officer has been notified that they are being investigated for potential misconduct.
IOPC Regional Director Catherine Bates said: “We are independent of the police and our investigation will be thorough to ensure we understand the circumstances of Mr Evans’ interaction with officers on 28 June.
“Upon conclusion of the investigation, we will decide whether any disciplinary proceedings, or referral to the Crown Prosecution Service, are required.
“Our thoughts are with his family and loved ones, and all those affected, at this sad time.”