Incident Summary: Ian Taylor, a drug dealer, died in his prison cell at HMP Kirkham after being found unresponsive on August 23, 2023. He was serving a 63-month sentence for drug-related offences.

Background: Taylor, aged 54 and originally from Tyldesley in Wigan, had been transferred to the open Category D prison from Durham Prison in June 2023. He admitted to possession with intent to supply cannabis and THC, along with involvement in the supply of cocaine and MDMA.

Health Conditions: Taylor suffered from multiple long-term health issues including asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), obesity, hypertension, type two diabetes, fluid retention, cellulitis, and ADHD. Specialist referrals were implemented after healthcare staff noted that he had fluid retention suspected to be linked to heart failure.

Timeline of Events:

• 8:50 AM: Another prisoner noticed Taylor snoring in his cell.
• 10:45 AM: Taylor was checked again but found unresponsive.
• 11:15 AM: Prison officers were notified.
• 11:41 AM: CPR was initiated by prison and healthcare staff.
• 12:56 PM: Taylor was taken to the hospital.
• 1:30 PM: Prison staff were informed of his death.

Post-Mortem Findings: A search of Taylor's cell revealed drugs categorized as Class B and Class C, though these were not linked to his death. The cause was determined to be acute left ventricular failure with contributing factors including hypertensive heart disease and fatty liver disease. Additionally, low levels of pregabalin and buprenorphine were found in his system which had not been prescribed to him.

Ombudsman Report: In a report published in January 2025 by the Prisons and Probation Ombudsman, it was concluded that Taylor received care equivalent to community standards for his health conditions. He was noted to have attended all healthcare appointments, and the emergency response to his collapse was deemed timely and well documented. Staff showed compassion and care during the emergency situation, ensuring Taylor was comforted until he was transported to the hospital.