Inmate found unresponsive in cell at Kirkham Prison died of combined drugs toxicity and with heart disease

A 53-year-old inmate found unresponsive in his cell at Kirkham Prison died of combined drugs toxicity with coronary artery disease a contributing factor, an inquest heard.

Jason Stevens was discovered when the cell was opened at 8am on October 20, 2024 after last being seen when it was locked up at 6.30 the previous evening.

A health care assistant alerted by officers, then paramedics called to the scene attempted resuscitation but without success and Stevens was declared dead at 8.45am.

A post mortem carried out by consultant pathologist Dr Richard Shepherd found evidence of cardio vascular disease as well as various substances in his system, including raised levels of methadone and the anti-depressant medication sertraline.

A toxicology test carried out in conjunction with the post mortem found the other substances included low levels of ketamine and spice as well as caffeine and nicotine.

They added up to what Dr Shepherd described in his report as a ‘cocktail of drugs’, with the pathologist adding that Stevens’ cardiovascular disease making him more susceptible to their effects.

Forensic toxicologist Hassan Kurimbokus told the inquest at Blackpool Town Hall that the levels of methadone and sertraline found in Stevens’ system were higher than would have been the case with therapeutic use.

The two medications can work together to bring on respiratory distress, slowing down breathing.

The inquest is being presided over by Blackpool and Fylde assistant coroner Andrew Cousins, with the conclusion to be made by a jury, as is standard in the case of deaths in prison.

The jury has been empanelled for five days and eight woman and three men were sworn in at the start of proceedings on Monday.

Stevens’ death will be investigated by the Prisons and Probation Service Ombudsman, who lists the investigation status as pending inquest outcome.

(Proceeding)