Roger Sylvester

Roger Sylvester, 31, was a much-loved Black godfather to five children from Tottenham, north London. He was a well-known member of the community. He was also an avid Arsenal supporter and respected by colleagues and service users in the mental health drop-in centre where he worked. Roger experienced mental ill health that he successfully managed.

On 11 January 1999, Roger was violently restrained by eight Metropolitan Police officers outside his home. Despite needing urgent medical attention, the police sectioned Roger, taking him to St Ann’s Mental Health Hospital. After continuing to restrain Roger, he suffered a cardiac arrest. He was taken to intensive care and eight days later Roger was pronounced dead.

Roger's family had grave concerns about the initial investigation into his death which was led by the Metropolitan Police itself.

It took almost five years for an inquest to be held. The inquest found that police involved were aware of the potential risks of prolonged restraint and evidence of false record keeping. The jury unanimously concluded that Roger was 'unlawfully killed'. Despite sufficient evidence, just over a year later this verdict was overturned on a technicality.

After Roger's death, the Sylvester family started the momentous and enduring family-led Roger Sylvester Justice Campaign (RSJC) to fight for truth and justice for Roger.