Investigation launched into death of 25-year-old Exeter prisoner

An inquest has heard how a 25-year-old prisoner at HMP Exeter died in hospital after being found in his cell.

The brief public hearing held by area coroner Alison Longhorn on September 6 at Devon Coroner's court, now located in Exeter's county hall, noted the death of Charlie Leat who was born in Bristol. She said he resided at HMP Exeter and died at the Royal Devon and Exeter Hospital on August 25. She said that at the time of his passing Charlie was single and unemployed.

Explaining the circumstances of his death, Ms Longhorn said Charlie was admitted to the Royal Devon and Exeter Hospital on August 22 having been found with a ligature around his neck . She said he was in cardiac arrest when he was admitted to the hospital but sadly passed away despite the efforts of medical staff.

Ms Longhorn said the medical cause of death was given as hypoxic brain injury pending histology and "out of hospital cardiac arrest due to hanging".

She adjourned the hearing and a full inquest will take place at a later date. The Prisons and Probation Ombudsman has confirmed an investigation is currently underway into the death of Mr Leat.