No criminal charges over death of man at York jewellers

Samuel Diatta died in hospital hours after he was restrained at a jewellery shop in York in July 2022

Samuel Diatta
Author: Liam ArrowsmithPublished 7th Jul 2023

Four men arrested following the death of a rugby player who was restrained at a jewellers in York won't face criminal charges.

Samuel Diatta got into an altercation with a member of staff at the shop in Coney Street in July 2022, before he was restrained by the staff member and three members of the public.

He fell unconscious and was taken to hospital, where he later died.

An inquest listed his cause of death as a combination of heart disease and the effects of being restrained.

North Yorkshire Police said Mr. Diatta was not suspected of being involved in a robbery.

Following what it has called a "complex investigation", it's been confirmed four men arrested at the time will not face criminal charges.

The North Yorkshire force said: "Our thoughts remain with Samuel’s family at this time.

"They have been fully informed of the rationale for the CPS’ decision, and have been supported by specialist officers throughout the investigation."

A report has now been passed to the coroner to inform a future inquest.

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