Christopher Alder was a trainee computer programmer and former British Army paratrooper who had served Assistance in the Falklands War and was commended Judgment_communication for his service with the Army in Northern Ireland .

On arrival at the police station Alder was `` partially dragged Motion and partially carried Carry_goods , '' handcuffed and unconscious , from a police van and placed Placing on the floor of the custody suite .

Twelve minutes later one of the officers present noticed Know that Alder was not making any breathing Breathing noises and although resuscitation Rescuing was attempted , he was pronounced Statement dead Death at the scene .

A coroner 's jury in 2000 returned Giving a verdict Legal_rulings that Alder was unlawfully killed Killing .

In 2002 five police officers went on trial Criminal_investigation charged Judgment_communication with Alder 's manslaughter and misconduct in public office , but were acquitted Legal_rulings on the orders of the judge .

In November 2011 the government formally apologised Judgment_communication to Alder 's family in the European Court of Human Rights , admitting Reveal_secret that it had breached its obligations with regard to `` preserving Preserving life and ensuring no one is subjected to inhuman or degrading treatment '' .