Inquest into the death of John Angeles

79y · Male·Ischaemic heart disease

John Angeles, aged 79, died of ischaemic heart disease while serving a life sentence for murder. He had severe triple-vessel coronary disease, chronic lung disease, and was on maximal medical therapy. The coroner found his care in prison was of appropriate standard and delivered in accordance with his wishes (including a not-for-resuscitation directive). Concerns were raised by his sister about pain management and medical recommendations not being followed. However, the coroner found pain relief was adequate; he had good cardiac pain control after November 11 despite initially refusing medications. Medical recommendations (particularly palliative patches) were discussed with him. When issues arose (inadequate pain management on November 9), the Commissioner immediately rectified them. The coroner concluded the medical care was appropriate and the death was not preventable.