A criminologist and anti-torture expert will lead an investigation into the how musician Sean Rigg died in police custody.

The Independent Police Complaints Commission (IPCC) has chosen Dr Silvia Casale to head an external review of their original investigation into Sean Rigg's death.

Earlier this year an inquest jury found police used an "unsuitable" amount of force when arresting Sean Rigg in Weir Road, Balham.

Mr Rigg, who suffered from schizophrenia but was physically fit, died of a cardiac arrest while in the custody suite of Brixton Police Station.

The review will look into the need for criminal proceedings to be brought against police staff.

It will also investigate how the IPCC handles investigations involving mental health issues.

An earlier review following Mr Rigg's death in 2008 found there was no wrong doing, but was criticised by the Rigg family for being "ineffective."

Dr Casale, who was president of the European and UN committees for the prevention of torture, will work alongside chairman of the IPCC Dame Anne Owers.

She said: "The independent investigation of deaths in police custody is difficult and complex work.

"I hope that this review will contribute to the IPCC’s on-going efforts to ensure a fair, rigorous and thorough process of investigation as well as to the ultimate aim of preventing future tragedy, such as the death of Mr Rigg."