Overview

• Inspector Collin Baker received an 18-month written warning after the IOPC found he breached professional duties by dismissing crucial information and classifying Matthew Caseby as only medium risk.
• The misconduct hearing followed a complaint from Caseby’s father, Richard, lodged almost three years after an inquest ruled neglect at Woodbourne Priory Hospital contributed to the patient’s 2020 death.
• The IOPC identified procedural failings in the force’s handling of medium-risk missing persons, particularly during overnight shifts when fewer officers are on duty.
• An April 2022 coroner’s jury highlighted hospital security and care shortcomings and prompted a national review of acute mental health unit safeguards.
• Priory Healthcare Ltd was fined £650,000 for safety failings linked to Matthew Caseby’s escape and subsequent death.