An official review into the death of a black man who was punched repeatedly in the torso and lower back by at least 17 times by 3 police officers, beaten with a baton and Tasered has been delayed for the last year because investigators have yet to obtain a transcript of the inquest.

Campaigners said the “unacceptable” hold up of the inquiry into the death of Darren Cumberbatch, 32, delivered the “message that the life of a black man is not valued”.

Cumberbatch died of multiple organ failure in hospital after being arrested by police at a probation hostel in Nuneaton, west Midlands. His family say the electrician’s body was covered in multiple deep bruises and “strange marks” when they visited him in hospital.

1274.jpg