Leon Briggs custody death: case against four officers and staff member still under consideration

Leon Briggs, 39, died at Luton police station in November 2013 after being detained by Bedfordshire Police officers. The case was passed to the CPS after investigators found evidence that five officers and a member of staff may have committed criminal offences. The CPS has now decided one officer will not be prosecuted over Mr Briggs’ death. The remaining four officers and staff member could still face prosecution. Mr Briggs was held under section 136 of the Mental Health Act after reports of an incident in Marsh Road, Luton. He was placed in a cell and restrained, but became ill and was taken to hospital where he was pronounced dead. Five officers – two police constables and three sergeants – were suspended for their involvement in the restraint and a detention officer was placed on restricted duties. A CPS spokesperson said: “Following the death of Leon Briggs at Luton police station in November 2013 the CPS has been considering possible criminal charges against six staff members from Bedfordshire Police. “We have looked at the evidence referred to us by the Independent Office for Police Conduct and decided there is not a realistic prospect of conviction against one officer. “We are still reviewing evidence regarding five individuals and Bedfordshire Police and decisions will be made in due course.” A spokesperson for Bedfordshire Police said: “Due to the fact this is still an ongoing investigation we are unable to comment.”