Our Colin Holt was not a bad man
Comments |
EXCLUSIVE
by Lynn Cox
lcox@thekmgroup.co.uk
The family of a mental patient who died after being restrained
by police have hit out at claims that he was "a neighbour from
hell".
Former electrician Colin Holt "became unwell" as a dozen
officers tried to control the 52-year-old after he vanished from
Medway Maritime Hospital.
Paramedics were called, but he died a short time later at his
flat, in Goudhurst Road, Twydall.
Neighbours of Mr Holt, who was detained under the Mental Health
Act, branded him an alcoholic troublemaker they were trying to have
evicted.
But his family described him as a "happy-go-lucky" and loving
uncle who was tormented by local youths.
Niece Jo Holt said: "He lived a hard life and was dealt, in my
eyes, a bad hand. He was mentally ill, but that's not a choice he
could make.
"I'm really hurt to see the comments made by residents. This
poor man has died and they are quick to pass judgement and make
horrid comments."
The Independent Police Complaints Commission has now launched an
investigation into Mr Holt's death, the cause of which is yet
unknown.
Health bosses said he had a history of failing to take his
medication and drinking excessively.
Pick up Friday's Medway Messenger for the full
story.
Friday, September 03 2010
The KM Group does not moderate comments.
Please click here for our house rules.