Overdose led to man's death
A DEPRESSED insomniac who took sedatives to help him sleep died after an overdose.
William Smith, of Upper Dukes Drive, Eastbourne, was found dead by his partner and an inquest into his death was held on Friday.
Coroner Alan Craze was told that Mr Smith had never worked and had a long history on mental illness including schizophrenia, bi-polar disorder and personality disorder.
The 46-year-old had been in hospital numerous times and was a very heavy cannabis user.
Cannabis, diazepam and chloral hydrate were among the drugs found in Mr Smith's system after he died on May 6 this year.
Dr Fraunhofer, of College Road surgery, was Mr Smith's GP and told the coroner there were frequent discussions about his drug abuse. Dr Fraunhofer said Mr Smith had some prescription medication but would purchase other drugs from his dealer.
His mother, Patricia Smith, said her son 'chain smoked' cannabis but added that he was a kind, caring and articulate man.
Mr Smith's partner, Mitchell Hillman, 19, said he had met Mr Smith while working as an escort. Mr Smith had hired him but they built up a relationship and were engaged at the time of his death.
Mr Hillman said he was worried when Mr Smith took the chloral hydrate and told him to take a rest.
He later found Mr Smith face down in the living room and phoned for an ambulance. Mr Hillman said, "He was my life and everything to me. I gave up my life to look after him."
Mr Craze recorded a verdict of death from dependency on drugs.
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Sunday 05 February 2012
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