‘ There is nothing in the call to suggest a higher threat’
A protocol jointly agreed by the North East Ambulance Service and Northumbria Police, which was implemented in August 2016, advised that in spite of any warnings about previous incidents concerning violence, aggression, substance misuse or the owning of weapons, crews should attend the scene.
However, all three workers on board the ambulance, Mr Gunn, Ms Smith and Caroline Connolly, said they were not aware of that procedure at the time of Mr Powney’s death.
A marker warning emergency services about Mr Powney’s behaviour had been placed on his address in June, but in three previous visits by ambulance crews leading up to his death, there had been no trouble.
Mr Gunn added: “I would agree that better communication with the police would benefit both of us.
“In hindsight this was a medical intervention only, however, we did not know that at the time.”
Also giving evidence was Chief Superintendent Sav Patsalos, head of the communications department at Northumbria Police, who told the hearing that markers were only to be used as guidance.
“The historic markers are to be used in intelligence in line with what is happening at the current situation,” said Chief Supt Patsalos.
“I was fully in agreement that this was low risk. There is nothing in the context of (Mr Powney’s 999) call to suggest a higher threat.”
The inquest, which is taking place at Sunderland Coroner’s Court is expected to finish today.