Source · Prevention of Future Deaths
Darren Mindham
Ref: 2016-wp25374
Coroner: Selena Lynch
Area: London (South)
0 responses identified · 1 indexed addressee
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AI-generated concerns summaryThe coroner noted that Pentobarbital, a drug commonly used in suicide, is not subject to strict control due to its Schedule 3 classification, indicating a potential gap in reducing access to means of suicide.
56-day deadline
11 Oct 2016
stated in the report
Responses identified
0 of 1
Coroner's concerns
The coroner noted that Pentobarbital, a drug commonly used in suicide, is not subject to strict control due to its Schedule 3 classification, indicating a potential gap in reducing access to means of suicide.
View full coroner's concerns
Pentobarbital is a drug that is found in Schedule 3 of the Misuse of Drugs Regulations 2001, and is therefore not subject to the strict control found in Schedule 2. Whilst there may be practical difficulties in complying with stricter control, the use of pentobarbital in suicide has become commonplace. It has been shown that reducing access to the means of suicide can be effective in reducing the rate of suicide.
Report sections
Investigation and inquest
On 2nd September 2015 I commenced an investigation into the death of Darren Mindham. The investigation concluded at the end of the inquest on 14th April 2016. The conclusion of the inquest was that he died from acute pentobarbital intoxication having self-administered pentobarbital at home some time on 28th August 2015 while suffering from depression. The conclusion as to the death was one of suicide.
Circumstances of the death
Mr Mindham worked as an assistant in a veterinary practice. The evidence suggested that he removed a bottle of pentobarbital from the drugs cupboard at a former employer and kept it at home before using it to take his life some months later.
Action should be taken
I previously sent a report to the Secretary of State for Health, and enclose a copy of his response.
Similar PFD reports
Report details
- Reference
- 2016-wp25374
- Coroner
- Selena Lynch
- Coroner area
- London (South)
Responses identified
Responses identified
0 of 1
1 response not yet linked
Organisations named in PFD reports are normally expected to respond within 56 days. Deadline: 11 Oct 2016 (stated in the report).
Sent to
- Advisory Council on the Misuse of Drugs
Part of a series
2016-0170
All responses identified