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Autistic Man Dies in Police Custody: Investigation Launched
31 Jul
Summary
- An autistic man's death after being handcuffed is under police watchdog investigation.
- Officers stated restraint was for the man's own safety during a crisis.
- Post-mortem results are inconclusive; further forensic tests are pending.
An investigation is underway by the Independent Office for Police Conduct (IOPC) into the death of Ricky Swindells, a 28-year-old autistic man. Greater Manchester Police (GMP) officers responded to a call from his family on Friday, July 24, 2026, concerning a mental health crisis.
During the incident, officers placed Mr. Swindells in handcuffs, stating it was for his own safety. He subsequently stopped breathing. The IOPC is scrutinizing the officers' decision-making process and the justification for using restraints.
Body-worn camera footage from the officers involved has been reviewed by the IOPC. GMP has referred the matter to the watchdog and is cooperating with the investigation, asserting its officers attempted to de-escalate the situation.
Preliminary findings from a post-mortem examination have not determined the exact cause of Mr. Swindells' death. Further forensic examinations, including toxicology tests, are currently in progress to ascertain the cause.
