Four police officers involved in restraining a suspect who died at the scene have yet to answer questions about the incident.

The Independent Police Complaints Commission (IPCC) is investigating the circumstances surrounding the death of Sean Wilkes, 21.

The four officers who restrained Mr Wilkes, who died at the scene of a disturbance in Cheriton, have provided the IPCC with written statements and attended interviews with investigators but declined to answer any questions.

But following the interviews, two of the officers did provide additional statements.

IPCC Commissioner Mary Cunneen said: “The investigation is progressing well and we are beginning to build up a picture of the circumstances surrounding what happened to Sean.
“It is important in tragic cases such as this involving a death that those officers who were present fully assist our independent investigation and answer our questions so we can understand what happened.

“We are committed to providing answers to Sean’s family who are coming to terms with the death of their loved one.”

Mr Wilkes had been at a house party on Saturday, July 6, when officers responded to a call of a disturbance in Richmond Street, Cheriton.

Two police officers initially arrived at the scene and took over restraining Mr Wilkes from members of the public.

Another two officers arrived and they were also involved in restraining him.
Commissioner Cunneen added: “I am encouraged by the positive response from witnesses who have come forward and spoken with our investigators.

“I would urge anyone else who may have witnessed the incident in Richmond Street between 10.20pm on Saturday, July 6, and 1am on Sunday, July 7, when Sean was restrained, to come forward.”