IOPC to investigate Met Police over handling of Edward Cornes' death
He was found in a King’s Cross hotel room with two middle-aged men in October 2021
An independent investigation is underway into how the Metropolitan Police handled the death of a 19-year-old, who was found in a King’s Cross hotel room with two middle-aged men back in October 2021.
He was just days into his studies at University College London.
The police watchdog is looking into multiple complaints, including that of evidence given by an officer at Edward Cornes' inquest, and how the force kept his family informed.
Neither of the men, in their 50s, were charged, with officers concluding that the case was not suspicious.
A coroner ruled Edward's death was drug-related, with a post-mortem discovering drugs including GHB and methamphetamine in his system.
An IOPC spokesperson said: “We can confirm the IOPC has started an investigation into a number of complaints about the Met Police regarding its handling of the tragic death of 19 year old Edward Cornes, who was found dead in a London hotel in October 2021.
“Those complaints include alleged failures in the investigation into Edward’s death, its handling of the subsequent coronial proceedings and inquest, including evidence provided by an officer at the inquest and its communication with Edward’s family throughout.
“His family made several complaints to the Met which voluntarily referred the matters to the IOPC on 6 February and further matters on 17 February.
"Our investigation is at an early stage, but we will liaise with Edward's family to determine the scope and breadth of our investigation and we will keep them regularly updated as our enquiries progress.”
A Met spokesperson said: “The Met’s Directorate of Professional Standards received a complaint from a family member on Wednesday, 7 January, following the inquest into Edward Cornes' death.
“The complaint was initially referred to the Independent Office for Police Conduct (IOPC) on 6 February with a further referral following additional complaints made on 17 February.
“On Wednesday, 18 March, the IOPC confirmed they would begin an independent investigation.
“The Met will offer every support to the IOPC as they investigate.”