Ambulance Chief apologises after staff found guilty of neglectful care

Thursday, 27 June 2024 08:28

The head of Jersey Ambulance Service has apologised publicly to the family of man who died in the care of two of his staff.

Following an eight day trial, the Royal Court has found 61 year old John Sutherland and 36 year old Tom Le Sauteur guilty of failing to take reasonable care of a patient.

Frazer Irvine (39) suffered a cardiac arrest in March 2022, having called 999 saying he had taken overdose.

The court heard the crew had called police for back-up because the patient was being aggressive and refusing their help.

The judge said they should have reacted more quickly to changes in his condition.

Following the verdict, Chief Ambulance Officer Peter Gavey said sorry to Mr Irvine's relatives:

"I can only imagine how painful this has been for them.

"We have never forgotten that a man died during this incident and Frazer Irvine and his family have always been at the forefront of our minds during this case.

"Cases of this kind are extremely rare, and the public can be reassured that the States of Jersey Ambulance Service is committed to upholding the highest standards of care and patient safety.

"The Service remains committed to supporting all its dedicated staff and will continue to provide specific support to any staff affected by the outcome of this prosecution.”

Mr Sutherland and Mr Le Sauteur remain suspended from duty, as they have been since the death.

Now that the trial has concluded, there will be an internal Ambulance Service investigation.