Investigation and inquest
On 22 January 2016 I commenced an investigation into the death of Alan George Stead aged 49 years. The investigation concluded at the end of the inquest on 20 July 2016. The conclusion of the inquest was natural causes with the cause of death being given as Haemopericardium Ib Thoracic aortic dissection Ic Ruptured atheromatous plaque.
Circumstances of the death
Mr Stead was a serving prisoner at HMP Dovegate who was taken ill in his cell late evening on 20 January 2016. He was taken to Queen's Hospital Burton shortly after midnight but was certified dead there soon after arrival. Death resulted from bleeding from a major vessel near his heart.
Coroner’s concerns
(1) The medical review has identified delays with the taking and testing of blood samples from prisoners at HMP Dovegate. This was not something included in a recommendation in the PPO report but was expressed as a concern by the family at the Inquest. This could have serious consequences in some cases. I wonder if you have looked at this and have done or can do anything to improve the situation with this at HMP Dovegate and indeed at any other prisons where you provide healthcare if this is an issue.