Devon & Cornwall Police statement from Acting Chief Constable Jim Colwell following the conclusion into the inquest into the death of Thomas Orchard
Thomas Orchard tragically died in October 2012. We recognise that it has taken a significant period of time to reach the conclusion of these coronial proceedings, and my thoughts, and those of everyone at Devon & Cornwall Police, remain with his family and friends.
Over the last 11 years, there have been two criminal trials relating to Thomas’ death and a Health and Safety Act prosecution of Devon & Cornwall Police relating to the procurement of the ERB device.
The record of inquest reflects that there were failings on the part of Devon & Cornwall Police and those failings were also recognised by the Force in formal admissions within this inquest. For those failings I offer an unreserved apology.
Since Thomas’ death the Force has implemented a significant amount of learning and improvement, specifically in relation to mental health awareness training for staff, use of force training and ensuring our custody provision offers the required level of care needed by those we come into contact with, particularly the most vulnerable.
Following a lengthy inquest, in which evidence was heard from members of the public, public agencies, and officers and staff from Devon & Cornwall Police, the jury have delivered their conclusions.
We accept and respect the conclusions reached by the jury in this inquest. Their conclusions have provided answers to a number of long standing questions.
The inquest has been an important and long awaited process for Thomas’ family and others. My thoughts are with the family and also a number of colleagues who have had this matter at the forefront of their lives for over 11 years.
Thomas’ death in 2012 was a tragic event and I want to finish today by reiterating our most sincere and heartfelt condolences to Thomas’ family and friends.
