Force referred to watchdog after death of man

The death of a man who was found in a garden has been referred to the Independent Office for Police Conduct (IOPC).

Staffordshire Police responded to a concern for welfare report following a street disturbance in Biddulph on 26 March.

After the visit, Joshua Cooper, 25, was found unresponsive in a garden. Despite being given first aid by an officer, he was pronounced dead at the scene by paramedics.

The force notified the IOPC and an investigation was launched the following day.

The watchdog said the police officers in attendance are being treated as witnesses.

IOPC director Derrick Campbell said: "We have a duty to investigate the circumstances, and in particular the contact police had with Mr Cooper before his death.

"I would like to send my condolences to Mr Cooper's family at this difficult and sad time.

"We have contacted them to explain our role and we will keep them regularly updated during our enquiries."

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