A MAN accused of shoplifting hanged himself in Durham Prison using a belt, an inquest heard.
New Zealand-born Graeme Limmer, 35, of Fernwood Avenue, Lemington, Newcastle, had been identified by police as a suicide risk in the past.
But when prison staff questioned the heroin-user on arrival at Durham, he showed no signs of being suicidal, North Durham coroner Andrew Tweddle was told.
Mr Limmer, who was single, had been arrested in Hexham and remanded in custody. He was found dead in his cell during a routine check, at 5am, on January 13.
Home Office pathologist Dr John McCarthy confirmed the death was due to hanging.
A jury, sitting at the hearing in Durham Magistrates' Court, returned a verdict of suicide.
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