London: A Polieman who was known for his work against London drug dealers was found dead in his flat from a heroin overdose.
David Pilling, 47, who was nicknamed "Robocop" for his efforts in tackling drugs, was found collapsed at his home in Camden.
An inquest heard on Thursday how the 47-year-old died of an overdose from a heroin injection. Traces of cocaine and ecstasy were also found in his system. His death on 26 March shocked friends, colleagues and family, none of whom had any idea he took drugs.
Toxicology reports revealed that his blood contained levels of heroin more than four times the amount normally associated with fatal overdoses.
Colleagues said the popular officer may have been experimenting and died from an accidental overdose. An investigation found he had been looking at websites dealing with drugs and how to take them the weeks before his death. Pc Pilling, of the Safer Neighbourhoods Team, and originally from Canada, built up a reputation for tackling drug dealers on his beat in Holborn and Covent Garden.
Camden borough commander Dominic Clout said: "Pc Pilling was a truly valued member of staff who proved popular with colleagues and members of the local community." The coroner recorded a verdict of death by misadventure.
David Pilling, 47, who was nicknamed "Robocop" for his efforts in tackling drugs, was found collapsed at his home in Camden.
An inquest heard on Thursday how the 47-year-old died of an overdose from a heroin injection. Traces of cocaine and ecstasy were also found in his system. His death on 26 March shocked friends, colleagues and family, none of whom had any idea he took drugs.
Toxicology reports revealed that his blood contained levels of heroin more than four times the amount normally associated with fatal overdoses.
Colleagues said the popular officer may have been experimenting and died from an accidental overdose. An investigation found he had been looking at websites dealing with drugs and how to take them the weeks before his death. Pc Pilling, of the Safer Neighbourhoods Team, and originally from Canada, built up a reputation for tackling drug dealers on his beat in Holborn and Covent Garden.
Camden borough commander Dominic Clout said: "Pc Pilling was a truly valued member of staff who proved popular with colleagues and members of the local community." The coroner recorded a verdict of death by misadventure.
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