An inquest into the death of a local man has started.
The inquest into the death of Thomas Humphrey, who was 35-years-old at the time of his death, began on Wednesday and heard that Humphrey was consuming alcohol and methamphetamine at an apartment in Chatham the day he died.
Humphrey, of Delaware Nation at Moraviantown heritage, died at the Chatham hospital on August 6, 2019, following an interaction with officers from the Chatham-Kent Police Service (CKPS).
The inquest heard that Humphrey started shaking after a shower and started foaming at the mouth before paramedics were called.
Opening statements at the inquest revealed that Humphrey was handcuffed to a gurney and was restrained by officers. One officer had their hands near Humphrey's head and neck area, while his legs were also restrained, according to the opening remarks of one of three inquest counsels.
The Regional Supervising Coroner announced the inquest in early September. An inquest into his death is mandatory under the Coroners Act.
The inquest will examine the circumstances surrounding Humphrey’s death, including the use of force by three CKPS officers. The jury may make recommendations aimed at preventing further deaths.
The inquest is expected to last six days and call 10 witnesses.
In April of 2021, the Special Investigations Unit released its report following a probe of the actions of police officers. SIU Director Joseph Martino determined that the officers did not engage in criminal activity during their interactions with Humphrey.
Humphrey was born in Chatham.
