Doctor in child porn inquiry
found dead

Kevin Johnston, a consultant neuroanaesthetist who worked at Leeds General Infirmary, died at a hospital in Merseyside on Monday.

The 40-year-old, from Otley, had been arrested by West Yorkshire Police over the indecent images claim.

The matter has now been referred to the Independent Police Complaints Commission.

A West Yorkshire Police spokesman said: “Police were notified on the morning of Sunday, August 18, that a 40-year-old Leeds man was in a serious condition in hospital after an incident during the afternoon of Saturday August 17 outside the West Yorkshire area. He has now died.

“There were no suspicious circumstances surrounding his death.

“West Yorkshire Police were notified because the man was on police bail having been arrested on suspicion of possession of indecent images of children. The matter has been referred to the Independent Police Complaints Commission.”

Dr Johnston was a consultant neuroanaesthetist and an honorary senior lecturer in Leeds. His online profile describes him as having a special interest in anaesthesia for neuro and maxillofacial surgery.

A spokesman for Leeds Teaching Hospitals NHS trust said: “We are extremely sorry to hear of the sudden and very sad death of Dr Kevin Johnston, who worked as a consultant neuroanaesthetist at Leeds General Infirmary.

“This news has come as a great shock to his colleagues at the trust and we send every condolence to his family.”

A spokesman for Merseyside Police confirmed officers were investigating the death.

A file is being prepared for the coroner.