THE Independent Office for Police Conduct (IOPC) is investigating six police officers after a man was arrested at a hotel and died a short time later.

Roberto Villa, aged 37, was arrested on the morning of December 4, at the Edgerton Hotel on New North Road.

The IOPC sent investigators to the scene, in Huddersfield, and to the police post incident procedures.

They are investigating the use of force by West Yorkshire Police on Mr Villa and the care they provided to him.

Based on the evidence analysed so far, including body worn video footage from the officers at the incident, the IOPC has served notices of investigation to six West Yorkshire Police officers.

The inquest into Mr Villa’s death was opened and adjourned on 14 January. With regard to the post mortem examination, the results of further tests are awaited to determine a cause of death.

IOPC Regional Director Miranda Biddle: “Firstly, our thoughts remain with all those affected by this incident.

"I am pleased with the progress our investigation has made at this stage; the evidence gathered so far has already provided us with a clearer picture of events and we will continue to work hard to establish exactly what happened.

“We have interviewed the six officers under investigation. I would like to make it very clear that our enquiries are ongoing and the serving of notices does not mean that misconduct is proven.”