A man arrested on charges of kidnap and assault hanged himself in his prison cell on the day he was due in court, an inquest heard.

William Clemenson, 33, of Ditton Court Road, Westcliff, was found dead at Pentonville Prison, London, on July 31.

St Pancras Coroner's Court heard that prison officer Stephen Green found him hanging from a ligature made from socks.

Clemenson was awaiting trial in connection with an aggravated burglary in which the victim was bound by his feet and suffered stab wounds to his neck.

Mr Green said after he spotted Clemenson through the observation flap, he and two other officers entered the cell.

No suicide note was found.

Senior medical officer at the prison, Dr Yisa, said Clemenson was transferred to the vulnerable prisoners' landing at his own request because he was afraid of being bullied.

Pathologist Freddy Patel said death was caused by hanging.

Deputy coroner Dr Hung-erford said: "Mr Clemenson was charged with serious offences and he had not been convicted but it was evident that on his mind was the possibility of a lengthy prison sentence."

The jury returned a verdict of suicide.

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