The number of people who died in police custody reached its highest level for five years in 2014/15, figures from watchdogs revealed.
There were 17 fatalities in or following detention in the most recent financial year - six more than the previous 12 months, the Independent Police Complaints Commission said.
The last time the figure was higher was in 2010/11, when it stood at 21.
It was also revealed that there were 69 apparent suicides following custody. This is 50% higher than the 46 people in 2010/11.
Theresa May will launch a major review into deaths and serious incidents in police custody later.