Coroner urges probe after officer ignored detainee's cocaine-induced seizure

In September 2022, 25-year-old Hugo Diaz Knox was arrested following a positive cocaine test and later died of an overdose while detained at Cootamundra Police Station in New South Wales. Evidence showed he likely swallowed two bags of cocaine during transport, a fact obscured by limited visibility inside the police wagon. During his detention, Senior Constable Cameron Smith observed Knox collapse and seize for about 20 seconds but stayed in the corridor, hands in his pockets, and failed to render aid or call for assistance.

He remained unattended until another officer noticed nasal bleeding and finally summoned medical help, by which time Knox was unresponsive and later died. Judge Joan Baptie, presiding over the inquest, described Smith's inaction as “perplexing and concerning” and recommended a Professional Standards Command investigation, while also urging broader policy changes for medical response to suspected drug ingestion. The coroner also suggested a review of the charge-room and custody management practices.