Family of Scot who died in police custody to take civil action against Police Chief

Relatives of Sheku Bayoh, who died in police custody in 2015, will begin legal action against Scotland's most senior police officer this week, their lawyer has confirmed.

Published 29th Apr 2018

The civil action will be lodged at the Court of Session in Edinburgh before time-barring rules come into effect on Thursday, according to Aamer Anwar.

Mr Bayoh's family are suing Police Scotland's Acting Chief Constable Iain Livingstone, claiming officers were responsible for his death.

It is understood they are seeking £2 million in damages.

The 31-year-old died after being restrained by officers responding to a call in Kirkcaldy, Fife, on May 3 2015.

His family have previously criticised the length of time taken to investigate his death.

The Police Investigations and Review Commissioner (Pirc) submitted a report into the incident to the Crown Office in August 2016.

Prosecutors have yet to decide whether or not there should be any criminal proceedings.

A fatal accident inquiry will be held regardless of whether anyone is charged.

A Police Scotland spokeswoman said: 'We can confirm that legal papers have been received and as such it would be inappropriate to comment further at this time.'