Why have police still got phone? Also re inquest.

[sunnypeach]

BIL died last March, inquest is next week. Police handed back everything but still have his phone. My husband and I are unsure why this could be? Have they possibly found something?

Also; please could someone let me know what happens at an inquest? We are slightly anxious about this.

Thank you.

Sorry for your loss - it's very common for the police to hold on to a phone until after a coroner's inquest.

This is a good factsheet on what to expect at the inquest, with some other useful contacts at the end, should you need them: https://coronerscourtssupportservice.org.uk/wp-content/uploads/2018/11/CCSS-EL_Inquest_Factsheet_Final29317221_3.pdf

Most inquests

Thank you. Could this be because it'll be used for the inquest? Potentially something is on there?

It was a sudden death; he has a heart condition so we know the primary death is due to that but I am guessing there will be a secondary

Just a thought and probably nothing but my phone is linked to my apple watch and monitors my heart rate, blood pressure etc …. Could it be that maybe?

Good idea but he didn't have an Apple Watch. I guess we will have to wait and see next week.

An inquest can sometimes lead to a criminal investigation, but it's unlikely. If evidence suggests a criminal act, the coroner will adjourn the inquest while the police investigate. It's more likely that in the absence of anyone requesting the phone back (did a family member ask for it to be returned?) they have just held on to it as a matter of course and it will come back to the family afterwards.

I hope it's a straightforward outcome for you all, to allow you some answers and the opportunity to grieve.