Garda Ombudsman's Office to probe two custody deaths
A man died after falling ill while in garda custody, the Garda Ombudsman confirmed today.
Johnny Nevin was arrested at his home in Templemore, Co Tipperary yesterday following a disturbance and he was brought to the local garda station.
The Garda Siochana Ombudsman Commission, which is investigating the death, said the 39-year-old became unwell at the station and was taken by ambulance to Nenagh Hospital.
He died yesterday evening.
It is understood he may have taken alcohol prior to his arrest.
A post-mortem examination was to take place today at the Mid-West Regional Hospital in Limerick.
The Ombudsman’s office said it was notified of the man’s death under Section 102 of the Garda Act 2005, which states it must be contacted to investigate whether the conduct of a garda resulted in the death or serious injury of a person.
It is the second death in garda custody in the last week.
A man arrested last Tuesday evening was found dead in his cell at Tallaght Garda Station.
The Ombudsman’s office said Garda Commissioner Fachtna Murphy had referred the death to the independent investigators.
It is understood the dead man was discovered in a cell during a routine check.
