A MOTHER has criticised Cumbria Police for the way officers treated her family following the death of her son.

Written comments made by Lynn West were read out at the inquest into the death of Alexander Keane – Lynn’s son – on Tuesday.

She said: “I feel that the police showed no compassion at all, and I think they labelled him as just another druggie – but he was my son and he was the kindest person you could wish to meet.

“We were not shown any respect at all.”

Mr Keane, who was born in Carlisle and spent time living in the city as well as in Penrith, died on January 8 at his home address in Appleby, just four days after he celebrated his 40th birthday.

The inquest heard that Alexander, known to his friends and family as Alex, had suffered many tragedies in his life, including a horrific ordeal as a teenager when he went to live with his father in Manchester before returning to Cumbria

A statement from his stepfather, William West, read out in the inquest said that Alex’s father was “horrible” to him, and that his father “gave him drugs” prior to his death.

Mr West’s statement read: “I had a good relationship with Alex and we were close. He was close to all his family.

“Wherever I went, he would come too. We’ve had our ups and downs, but we had a close bond.”

Alex continued to have issues with drugs and alcohol and spent time in prison on two occasions, but upon his release the second time he began doing volunteering work at a local church.

Mr West’s statement added: “He stayed off drugs and got a new partner, Lily, who was a good influence. He was planning for the future, and seemed very happy.”

However, on January 8 Mr West discovered Alex’s body in his bedroom. He performed CPR, but was unable to save him.

The court heard medical syringes and other drug paraphernalia were found in his room.

Coroner Ms Kally Cheema recorded a conclusion of a drug-related death. Addressing Mrs West, she said: “That doesn’t mean it was a drug overdose or deliberate.

“Thank you for attending, I know this is a critical time for you and your family and I am very grateful.

“My condolences to you from me and my team.”

Ms Cheema also thanked Mrs West for her remarks about the police, and said she would be within her rights to take the complaint to the constabulary.

However, Mrs West said: “It won’t make any difference to the outcome. Alex will still be gone.”

Addressing the complaints, a spokeswoman for Cumbria Police said: “Cumbria Constabulary conducted a thorough investigation into the death of Alexander Keane, resulting in a file being passed to the coroner.

“We expect the highest standards of professionalism, integrity, and conduct from all police staff at all times.

“Anyone with any concerns about how they have been treated should contact police on 101 and ask the speak to the Professional Standards Department, who will investigate any allegations thoroughly and professionally.”