The inquest into the death of Leon Briggs is due to take place from Monday, 4 January 2021.
Mr Briggs was detained under the Mental Health Act in Luton on the afternoon of 4 November 2013 and taken to Luton Police Station. He was subsequently taken to Luton & Dunstable Hospital where he was sadly pronounced dead a short while later.
The inquest will be held by Senior Coroner for Bedfordshire and Luton Emma Whitting at a Covid-secure venue in Milton Keynes over a six-week period. The inquest will hear evidence from a number of witnesses and the jury will determine four key facts:
- The identity of the deceased, how, where and when the death occurred
The coroner will record a cause of death, and may also make recommendations depending on the evidence which is heard during the proceedings.
Below is a timeline of events which have taken place in relation to Mr Briggs’ death and links to statements released by Bedfordshire Police:
The different aspects of the investigations into Mr Briggs’ death has meant unacceptable delays for the family who have been incredibly patient and dignified as they have waited to hear the full facts of what happened. We too, have always wanted a fair and transparent hearing to provide those answers to the family and provide confidence to the public, we hope the inquest will provide this for all parties.
As these are legal proceedings, the force will not be making any further public comment until the conclusion of the inquest.
Our thoughts remain with the family of Mr Briggs at this incredibly difficult time.