Outrage in US as man is shot in head while handcuffed in police car

Chavis Carter
Chavis Carter

originally by: The Telegraph
published: 8 August 2012

Hundreds of people have taken to the streets to protest an official explanation of suicide in the death of Chavis Carter, 21, in Jonesboro, Arkansas. Mr Carter was pulled over by police late last month and searched twice by officers who discovered a small $10 bag of marijuana.

He was also wanted for skipping probation on another drugs charge. He had his hands cuffed behind his back and put into a police car.

Michael Yates, the police chief, has conceded that a “very unusual” chain of events led up to the later discovery of Mr Carter was found slumped in the back of the police car with a bullet wound in his head.

Continue reading

Sean Rigg inquest: Inspector defends custody handling

Sean Rigg Banner
Sean Rigg Campaign Banner

originally by: BBC News
published: 20 July 2012

A police inspector in charge of a group of officers when a schizophrenic man died in custody has said he would act “exactly the same” under similar circumstances. 

Physically fit Sean Rigg, 40, was held by police after he attacked passers-by in Balham, south London, in 2008. Southwark Coroner’s Court heard he was not treated with extra care despite information about his mental health. He died at Brixton police station in south London.

Continue reading

Mubenga death: G4S guards will not face charges

Justice for Jimmy Mubenga

originally by: The Guardian
published: 17 July 2012

Three guards who worked for the security firm G4S have been told they will not face manslaughter charges over the death of Jimmy Mubenga, an Angolan refugee who collapsed while being escorted on a flight from Heathrow airport in London 21 months ago.

The men worked as guards for the firm, which was contracted to escort deportees for the Home Office when the incident occurred. G4S has come under intense criticism in recent days after admitting it has failed to supply enough guards for the Olympics.

Mubenga, 46, died after losing consciousness on British Airways flight 77 to Angola, as it waited to take off on the runway.

Continue reading