HOSPITAL staff are facing a possible prosecution after a patient with a mental handicap died when being restrained.
Billy Thurgood was found dead, allegedly wrapped in two duvets, at Prudhoe Hospital, Northumberland, in July last year.
His family say they were told by police that he had been restrained, and died of heat exhaustion.
Mr Thurgood, 41, had severe learning difficulties and had lived at the Victorian hospital most of his life.
After a lengthy investigation, detectives have sent a file to the Crown Prosecution Service.
Mr Thurgood's family, who live in Gateshead, Tyneside, welcomed the news.
Brother Ian, 40, said: "We just want to know what went on at that place, and why he died.
"When Billy was young he was a big, strapping lad and could be a bit violent, but, over the years, he just seemed to shrink and was quite small.
"He was not strong and would not have needed much restraining."
Northgate and Prudhoe NHS Trust declined to comment
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