Three officers investigated for gross misconduct after custody death

Kent Police will update its detainee management procedures after a man died in its custody. Carl Maynard collapsed at Tonbridge Police station on October 13 after being arrested in connection with an alleged domestic abuse incident. The 29-year-old was given medical assistance but was pronounced dead just hours later. Following a recommendation by the Independent Police Complaints Commission (IPCC), the force has now agreed to update its standard operating procedure on ‘defendant custody management’ where officers suspect a person is in urgent need of medical attention. It has also served three officers with gross misconduct notices. IPCC operations manager Catherine Hall said: “I am pleased Kent Police has accepted our quick-time learning recommendation and that it will look to implement it immediately. “The serving of the notices on the three officers represents a new stage in our investigation but I would like to emphasise it does not indicate guilt on any person’s part.” Post-mortem tests were carried out to establish the cause of Mr Maynard’s death but the results were inconclusive. Further tests are due to be conducted in January. A Kent Police spokesperson said it would be inappropriate to comment further on the ongoing investigation until it has concluded. The force added: “Kent Police has already accepted one recommendation made by the IPCC in relation to the incident, and has taken steps to ensure the suggested action is carried out.”