A nurse has denied manslaughter charges over the death of a man who died after being taken into police custody. Sean Cregg, 35, appeared at the Old Bailey on Tuesday facing allegations relating to the death of William Cameron, 38, in January 2020.
During the hearing, Cregg pleaded not guilty to manslaughter by gross negligence and a health and safety charge. The prosecution alleges he failed in his duty of care whilst working as a custody nurse at Loddon Valley Police Station in Berkshire.
Alleged failures in care
It is alleged Cregg failed to act on his observations that Mr Cameron could not walk and talk, making him unfit for detention in custody. The prosecution claims he did not consider that Mr Cameron was genuinely unresponsive rather than pretending.
Other alleged failings include not taking vital readings or arranging hospital transfer for Mr Cameron. It is also alleged that Cregg failed to ensure Mr Cameron was placed in the recovery position and did not take reasonable care for his health and safety whilst in custody.
Trial set for 2026
Judge Philip Katz KC set a trial lasting up to six weeks from 1st October 2026, with a further directions hearing scheduled for 9th January. The judge granted Cregg, from Newbury in Berkshire, continued unconditional bail.
Mr Cameron died on 8th January 2020 after being arrested and taken to Loddon Valley police station near Reading. Cregg was employed by Mountain Healthcare, which provided services for Thames Valley Police at the time.
Family tribute
Cregg was charged in May following a review of evidence from the Independent Office for Police Conduct (IOPC). At the time Cregg was charged, Mr Cameron's sister, Patricia Cameron, described her brother as "a kind, loving and protective brother" and "one in a million".
(PA) Note: This article has been edited with the help of Artificial Intelligence.