
Inquest begins today into death of Windsor man at Southwest Detention Centre
A coroner's inquest begins today into the death of a Windsor man who died while in custody at the Southwest Detention Centre in 2019.
Joseph Gratton was 31 years old when he died on Oct. 30, 2019. His death is subject to a mandatory inquest under Ontario's Coroners Act, which requires an inquest when someone dies while detained.
Dr. Elizabeth Urbantke, the regional supervising coroner for the West Region, London Office, announced that the inquest will begin at 9:30 a.m. Monday and is expected to last five days. Dr. Richard Wells will preside over the proceedings, with Julian Roy serving as inquest counsel.
The inquest will examine the events and circumstances surrounding Gratton's death. A jury may make recommendations to prevent similar deaths in the future.
About five witnesses are expected to testify during the hearing, which is being held by video conference.
Members of the public can view the proceedings live online.
CTV News Windsor will provide updates as the inquest continues throughout the week.
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