Police have launched an investigation after a father-of-four was found dead at a Kent prison.

The family of Josh Tarrant, 34, say they are still “looking for answers” after his shock death on November 1.

Tarrant was taken into custody at HMP Elmley on Sheppey at around 8.30pm after being convicted at court on Tuesday, October 31.

An inquest opening into his death heard how he had to be restrained after suffering a “psychotic episode” and was later placed in a cell.

At around 2.15am the following morning, a prison officer found him having a cardiac arrest.

Currently, his cause of death is unexplained but Kent Police’s major crime unit is investigating the incident.

The inquest has been suspended pending the outcome of the investigation.

A police spokesman said: “Kent Police is investigating the death of an inmate at Elmley Prison in Sheerness.

“Patrols and paramedics were called to the prison on Wednesday, November 1, where a 34-year-old man was confirmed deceased at the scene.

“Inquiries to establish the full circumstances are underway and a report has been completed for the coroner.”

A prison service spokesperson said: “Prisoner Joshua Tarrant died on 1 November 2023 and our thoughts are with his loved ones.

“It would be inappropriate to comment further while a police investigation is ongoing.”