Sussex Police withdraw ‘manslaughter’ charge after death of man in Haywards Heath

A Sussex Police spokesperson said: “Police investigating a man’s death in Haywards Heath have withdrawn charges against a 36-year-old man.

“The 36-year-old man from the town was initially arrested and was charged with manslaughter in connection with the death of a 63-year-old man at The Heath Tavern in Haywards Heath on 29 December.

“The man was remanded to appear before Brighton Magistrates’ Court on 1 January and was due to appear before a Crown Court on January 29.

“Sussex Police can confirm that following a thorough investigation and a further review alongside the Crown Prosecution Service (CPS), all charges against the man have been withdrawn and he faces no further police action.”

Superintendent Imran Asghar said: “We have carried out a thorough investigation into the tragic circumstances of this incident, following a 63-year-old man’s death at a public house in Haywards Heath on 29 December.

“Given the initial circumstances in this case and some immediate safeguarding risks, a 36-year-old man was initially arrested and was remanded to court charged with manslaughter.

“Following a further review into the circumstances of the incident, we have liaised with the CPS and we are in agreement that there is no reasonable prospect of conviction, and the man should face no charges and face no further police action in relation to the incident.

“Officers have kept all parties fully informed of the progress and updates in our investigation, and our thoughts continue to be with them at this time.”