Description
In terms of section 6(1)(a) of the Fatal Accident and Sudden Deaths Inquiry (Scotland) Act 1976, the Sheriff found that Mr William Stewart died at 1911 hours on 19th February 2008 within Cell 49, Abercrombie Flat 5, Glenochil Prison, King O'Muirs Road, Tullibody. The cause of death was Artheroscleoric Coronary Artery Disease.
The court heard that the deceased was serving a life sentence imposed in 1993 at the time of his death. He had a history of heart disease, and had already suffered one heart attack. The Sheriff noted that the deceased had made a well documented choice not to take medication prescribed for his condition, contrary to medical advice.
The court heard that the deceased was found in a collapsed state lying on his bed in his cell, by a fellow inmate at 1845 hours on the date of death. Attempts were made to resuscitate him by prison officers, prison medical staff and paramedics, but these attempts were ultimately unsuccessful and the time of death was recorded as 1911 hours.
The Sheriff did not make any recommendations under sub-sections 6(1)(c), (d) or (e) of the Act. The Sheriff instead complemented the Scottish Prison Service staff, and in particular the medical staff, for the quality of care and medical treatment shown to the deceased during his lifetime.
