Coroner's Court of Western Australia

Inquest into the Death of William John DAVIS

Inquest into the Death of William John DAVIS

Delivered on : 6 February 2019

Delivered at : Perth

Finding of : Coroner Jenkin

Recommendations : N/A

Orders/Rules : N/A

Suppression Order : N/A

Summary : The deceased at the time of his death was in the care of the Department of Corrective Services. The deceased was 37 years of age.

As a child, the deceased was diagnosed with Ehlers Danlos Syndrome, an inherited connective tissue disorder. The deceased had a significant history of illicit drug and alcohol abuse and began using cannabis when he was 13 years of age. The deceased’s adoptive parents provided him with a loving and supportive environment but he struggled with depression and undertook a number of drug rehabilitation programs. The deceased was reportedly intelligent and academically gifted, but lacked motivation. As a result of his medical condition, he was socially isolated at school and had a difficult time.

The deceased attempted suicide on several occasions including in 2011 following the death of his adoptive mother. The deceased reported weekly instances of cutting behaviour as a means to control his emotions.

In 2012, he deceased was sentenced to imprisonment for 6 years. He was made eligible for parole, which was granted and he was due to be released on 28 October 2016.

At the time of his death, the deceased was housed at the Karnet Prison Farm. On 18 October 2016, the deceased carried out his normal morning routine and was given his usual medication at the Prison’s medical centre. He returned to his cell and spoke to several prisoners and appeared to be his usual self. Later in the morning, the deceased was found sitting in a chair outside his cell block. He was slumped over and cool to the touch. Prison authorities were altered and CPR was commenced immediately. Ambulance officers arrived at the prison and continued resuscitation attempts but were unable to revive the deceased and he was pronounced dead.

The Coroner found the care provided to the deceased was reasonable and appropriate while he was incarcerated.

The Coroner found the deceased died on 18 October 2016 from subarachnoid haemorrhage due to a ruptured berry aneurysm and death occurred by way of natural causes.

Catch Words : Death in Custody : Supervision, Treatment and Care : Natural Causes.


Last updated: 30-Apr-2019

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