Four Police Officers to Face Gross Misconduct Proceedings Following Death of Vulnerable Man
West Midlands Police officers are facing serious disciplinary action after the death of a vulnerable man in Coventry. The Independent Office for Police Conduct has determined that four officers must answer for their actions during the incident that led to the tragic death of 63-year-old Jerome Cowan.
December 2022 Incident at Coventry Library
On December 8, 2022, police were called to Coventry Central Library where they discovered Mr. Cowan slumped in a toilet cubicle. Officers found him apparently intoxicated and unable to stand or remain conscious. The officers removed him from the cubicle and placed him on the floor, but shortly afterward noticed he had stopped breathing.
An ambulance rushed Mr. Cowan to hospital, but he died soon after arrival. A recent inquest concluded that his death was related to alcohol and drugs, though the jury noted there were missed opportunities in the level of care provided that may have contributed to the outcome.
IOPC Investigation Findings
The Independent Office for Police Conduct launched an investigation in March 2023 after West Midlands Police referred the case. Investigators reviewed body-worn footage and raised significant concerns about the care and treatment provided to Mr. Cowan.
The IOPC examined whether officers followed national and local policies regarding first aid provision, whether Mr. Cowan was treated with proper respect and dignity, and whether fairness and impartiality were shown given his homeless status and alcohol dependency.
Gross Misconduct Proceedings Authorized
In May 2025, the IOPC concluded its investigation and found a case to answer for gross misconduct involving three constables and one police community support officer. One of the constables now serves with Warwickshire Police.
IOPC Director Emily Barry stated: "Our sympathies go out to everyone affected by his death, particularly in such a distressing set of circumstances. Our inquiries looked at the level of care he received and found potential breaches of the police standards of professional behavior."
The investigation identified alleged failures including:
- Failure to provide adequate first aid
- Failure to treat Mr. Cowan with dignity and respect
- Failure to challenge and report colleagues' behavior
Criminal Investigation Concluded
Although the officers were interviewed under criminal caution during the investigation, the IOPC decided not to refer the case to the Crown Prosecution Service for potential criminal charges. The focus now shifts to disciplinary proceedings that West Midlands Police must organize.
This case highlights ongoing concerns about police interactions with vulnerable individuals and the standards of care provided during emergency situations. The gross misconduct hearing will examine whether the officers' actions fell below the professional standards expected of police personnel.
