Misconduct notices have been served on five police officers in connection with the death of a woman in police custody, it was disclosed today.

Their actions are being scrutinised by the police watchdog following the death of mother-of-one Sharon McLaughlin, 32, who was found unconscious in her cell at Worthing police custody centre in West Sussex on May 16.

She had been arrested on suspicion of theft the day before and while in custody had been searched and arrested for possession of class A drugs.

The Independent Police Complaints Commission (IPCC) said the notices served on the five Sussex Police custody sergeants are required under rules to advise that their conduct is under investigation.

The actions of four civilian Reliance custody assistants are also being examined, the IPCC added.

IPCC commissioner for the South East, Mike Franklin, said: "It is important that the actions of all those officers and civilian staff, who were responsible for Miss McLaughlin's care while she was in custody, are fully examined."

Investigators have been examining CCTV from the custody suite, studying documents and records relating to Miss McLaughlin's detention and comparing accounts from officers and custody staff.

They have also been analysing Sussex Police and Association of Chief Police Officers (Acpo) policies, guidance and training for custody officers and staff.

The IPCC said that in particular their inquiries will look at policies and guidance relating to caring for detainees with drug dependency.

Forensic work is continuing to try to establish the cause of Miss McLaughlin's death after a post-mortem examination proved inconclusive.

In a statement released at the time of her death, her family said she was dependent on drugs, but added: "This terrible addiction never changed her kind nature and the love for her daughter and family."

It described her death as "another sad example of the destructive nature of drugs for its users and their families".

The statement continued: "Sharon was a kind-hearted girl who was able to light up any room with her presence and infectious smile. She left us with so many treasured memories that will be never forgotten.

"The family are determined that the circumstances surrounding this incident are fully investigated in order to establish whether Sharon was given the duty of care she deserved.

"We have full confidence that the Independent Police Complaints Commission will get the answers to the many questions surrounding this tragedy."