More on KentOnline
Home Tunbridge Wells News Article
A man arrested on suspicion of rape hanged himself in his flat.
Artur Malaj, 45, was found dead in Tunbridge Wells in March, three months after being handed a bail extension by Kent Police.
An inquest into his death today heard he was granted a bail extension by police in December, having been arrested on suspicion of rape, harassment and assault.
No charges had been brought against the former school caretaker.
A cleaner with Kent Gurka Company, Mr Malaj had worked at Bennett Memorial Diocesan School in Tunbridge Wells for six years.
He was dismissed from KGC in January after an allegation of theft was made.
The allegation was upheld following an internal investigation.
Today's inquest heard the Polish-born martial arts enthusiast was subject to a court order barring him from contacting his estranged wife or children.
Det Sgt Tom Daveney told the inquest Mr Malaj had not seen his two sons since 2016.
His body was found on March 5 after a neighbour at Bridge Court, Medway Drive, became concerned having not seen or heard from him in a week.
"Whether the pending court proceedings had any baring on his intentions, it is not possible to say..." - assistant coroner Alan Blunsdon
They entered his flat after finding his door unlocked and found his body.
As well as a bail extension notice, police also found divorce papers near Mr Malaj's body.
DS Daveney told Mr Blunsdon the papers were delivered the day before Mr Malaj was found.
Police could find no evidence he had previously self harmed and no suicide note was found.
Assistant coroner Alan Blunsdon said: "I'm abundantly satisfied Artur Malaj intended to take his own life.
"Whether the pending court proceedings had any baring on his intentions, it is not possible to say."
If you are struggling with mental health problems, please contact Samaritans on 116 123.
Alternatively click here to discover the services available.