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Independent Inquiry Launched After Man Dies in Greater Manchester Police Custody
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A thorough and independent investigation is underway following the death of a 26-year-old man,Ellis Rocks,after he was found unresponsive in a police cell. The incident has prompted scrutiny of procedures at Greater Manchester Police (GMP) and a commitment to transparency.
A spokesperson for the Independent Office for Police Conduct (IOPC) confirmed the investigation was declared at 10:18 a.m. on Sunday, August 3, 2025, following the death of Mr. Rocks at a local hospital.
Arrest and Initial Detention
According to reports, Mr. Rocks was initially arrested by GMP officers at the Britannia Hotel on Almond Brook Road, Standish, Wigan, at approximately 8:35 p.m. on Thursday, August 3, 2025. Officers responded to reports of a man allegedly attempting to deal drugs at a premises in the town. He was also wanted by police in London in connection with a separate alleged assault.
Following his arrest, Mr. Rocks was handcuffed and searched at the scene before being transferred to police custody. The IOPC stated that officers followed standard procedures during the arrest and initial processing.
Medical Emergency and Death
Mr. Rocks remained in custody overnight. At approximately 2:30 a.m. on Friday,August 4,2025,detention officers discovered him unresponsive on the floor of his cell and immediately called for an ambulance. Paramedics transported Mr. Rocks to the hospital, where he suffered a cardiac arrest during transit. Resuscitation efforts were initiated,but he was pronounced dead at 7:20 a.m. on Sunday, August 3, 2025.
IOPC Investigation Underway
The GMP proactively referred themselves to the IOPC, recognizing the need for an independent review of the circumstances surrounding Mr.Rocks’ death. IOPC investigators were deployed in the early hours of Friday morning and have already begun gathering evidence.
“This was a tragic incident in which Mr. Rocks has sadly died and our thoughts are with his family and loved ones,” a spokesperson for the IOPC stated. “GMP referred this matter to us, and as he was in the custody of police at the time he became unwell, it is vital there is a thorough and independent investigation.”
The investigation will encompass a comprehensive review of all relevant factors, including the interactions between officers and Mr. Rocks during his detention and the events that transpired after his arrival at the custody suite. Investigators have already reviewed CCTV footage from the custody suite and body-worn video from the officers involved in the arrest.They are also in the process of obtaining initial accounts from the officers.
Police Cooperation and Public Appeal
Assistant Chief Constable Chris Sykes of Greater Manchester police expressed condolences to Mr. Rocks’ family. “our thoughts are with the family of Ellis who have endured the most heartbreaking last few days,” Sykes said. “What is most critically important is that they get all the answers to what has led to his death. We will fully cooperate with the IOPC’s enquiries.”
Sykes emphasized the rarity of such incidents and urged the public to refrain from premature judgment. “Incidents where someone sadly dies following police contact are rare but are still deeply impactful for that person’s loved ones. It is important following a death in our custody that a thorough and independent investigation takes place, and I urge people to not rush to judgement before the full facts are established.”
The IOPC has made contact with Mr.Rocks’ family to explain their role in the investigation and will provide updates as their inquiries progress. The outcome of the investigation will be crucial in determining the circumstances surrounding this tragic death and ensuring accountability.
