The Independent Office for Police Conduct (IOPC) has launched an independent investigation after a 28-year-old autistic man, identified as Ricky Swindells, became unresponsive following restraint by officers in Salford.
Incident and immediate response
Greater Manchester Police (GMP) officers were called to an address on Duchy Road on the evening of 24 July after a report concerning Mr Swindells’ welfare. Family members told officers during the call that he was autistic and was experiencing what was described as “significant distress”.
On arrival, officers used handcuffs to restrain Mr Swindells. Body-worn video footage is reported to show officers saying the restraint was applied for his safety. He became unresponsive at the scene and received medical treatment before being taken to hospital, where he died on 25 July. The IOPC has said the cause of death is not yet known.
“This was clearly an extremely distressing incident and our investigation will be thorough to help establish the facts and get answers to the family’s questions,”
The quoted comment came from IOPC director of engagement Amanda Rowe as the watchdog confirmed it would examine the actions and decision-making of the officers involved, including the form of restraint used.
Force statement and context
GMP said it was supporting an independent inquiry and described the officers’ response as being to a report from family members of a man in crisis. The force said officers were called at 7.40pm and that the man was presenting as being on the floor and in distress. It added that handcuffs were applied "for his own safety" and that officers were attempting to calm the situation while he was detained.
What the investigation will cover
The IOPC will:
- Examine the sequence of events leading to Mr Swindells becoming unresponsive.
- Review body-worn video and other evidence, including medical treatment given at the scene.
- Assess the appropriateness of the restraint and the decision-making of officers present.
The watchdog emphasised its independence from the police and said the probe will aim to establish the facts and provide answers to the family.
Timeline
| When | What happened |
|---|---|
| 24 July, 19:40 | GMP notified and officers attend property on Duchy Road following a welfare concern. |
| 24 July | Handcuffs used to restrain Mr Swindells; he became unresponsive and was treated at the scene. |
| 25 July | Mr Swindells died in hospital; cause of death unconfirmed. |
Local campaigners and residents frequently raise concerns about how emergency services manage incidents involving people with autism and other neurodiverse conditions. The IOPC inquiry will assess whether officers followed relevant policies and used proportionate force in the circumstances.
As the investigation proceeds, the IOPC has asked anyone with information or footage relevant to the incident to come forward. GMP says it will continue to cooperate with the watchdog’s enquiries.
The death has prompted expressions of sympathy to the family and underscores continuing scrutiny of police interactions with vulnerable people in crisis.
