Watchdog to probe man’s death in custody

Gardaí are thought to have acted appropriately in a case where a man died in custody in a Cork station.

The Garda Síochána Ombudsman Commission has been called in to investigate yesterday’s death.

The involvement of the independent watchdog is automatic in cases involving the death of a person in garda custody.

It does not reflect any suspicions in relation to any behaviour by gardaí.

It is understood that James Martin Walsh, 44, was found in a lane in Midleton at around 6.30am and was in a drunken state.

He had been socialising in a pub up until around 11pm on Sunday. He is then thought to have gone to a house party.

It is believed Mr Walsh was separated, with two children, and was originally from Carrigtwohill, but was living in Midleton.

After gardaí found him, he was arrested and taken to Midleton Garda Station. He was put in a cell but during his time there became unwell.

Gardaí are thought to have contacted a doctor and rang for an ambulance straight away. Mr Walsh was brought to Cork University Hospital, but died shortly after.

A GSOC spokesman said: “The matter was referred to us under Section 102 of the Garda Síochána Act, which is standard procedure in situations like this and we have begun an investigation.

“Anyone with any information of assistance to the investigation, in particular any information [on] the whereabouts of Mr Walsh between 6pm and 6am [yesterday], should contact us on 1890 600 800.”

It is understood there is no suspicion that gardaí acted in anything other than an appropriate fashion and contacted a doctor and the ambulance service as soon as they noticed Mr Walsh’s condition deteriorating.