Death of prisoner behind bars deemed 'unavoidable'
The death of a prisoner jailed at HMP Kilmarnock has been deemed 'unavoidable' following a Fatal Accident Inquiry.
Andrew Whiteford was taken to Crosshouse Hospital where he died on May 31, 2022, whilst in custody.
The 38-year-old was diagnosed with hypopharyngeal cancer, which is found in the lower part of the throat, and also had type one diabetes.
The prisoner died of natural causes.
The Fatal Accident Inquiry ruled 'no precautions which could reasonably have been taken and had they
been taken, might realistically have resulted in death being avoided.'
Following every death behind bars, a Fatal Accident Inquiry is carried out and the Crown Office and Procurator Fiscal Service is required to investigate.
Following the publication of the determination, Procurator Fiscal Andy Shanks, who leads on fatalities investigations for COPFS said: 'We note the Sheriff's determination.
'The Procurator Fiscal ensured that the full facts and circumstances of Mr Whiteford's death were presented in evidence at the mandatory Fatal Accident Inquiry. '
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