An investigation is underway into the death of Sebastian Zarnoch, a murder suspect who was found unresponsive in his cell at Keyham Lane Police Station on 6 September. Zarnoch was detained earlier on suspicion of kidnapping and murdering Gabriela Kosilko, who went missing on 3 September. The Independent Office for Police Conduct (IOPC) announced that three officers and four staff members are being investigated for potential criminal activity in the line of duty.
According to the IOPC, all seven Leicestershire Police workers who dealt with Zarnoch prior to his death have been notified of the investigation. Three officers have been served with gross misconduct notices. The IOPC has informed the other four members that they will be subject to a disciplinary investigation. The severity of the allegations involves proper risk assessments and supervision of Zarnoch. The IOPC will investigate if the observations and cell checks were in line with procedure and policy.
The serving of misconduct notices does not equate to criminal charges or disciplinary proceedings, as stated by the IOPC. A post-mortem examination was held on 11 September while further tests remain pending. The West Midlands Regional Director for the IOPC, Derrick Campbell, expressed condolences to Zarnoch’s family and assured his organisation would communicate the investigation’s conclusions when the time came. Campbell added that the matter could be referred to the Crown Prosecution Service if the investigation warrants criminal charges.
Leicestershire Police are yet to release a statement regarding the investigation. BBC East Midlands reported the story and has expressed that it has no responsibility for any external sites linked in the report. The IOPC is working with Zarnoch’s family to investigate the case and bring closure to them
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