A MAN found hanged at a green area in Barry in April committed suicide, a coroner has ruled.

Acting coroner Cardiff and Vale of Glamorgan Thomas Atherton recorded a verdict of suicide following the death of Chae Joseph Paul Bennett, more commonly known as Degaetano, at an inquest held in Cardiff on Monday, July 27.

The inquest heard that 21-year-old Chae had been discovered by a dog walker at around 6.45am on April 15 this year.

Emergency services pronounced him dead at the scene and recovered a mobile phone, handwritten note, green pen and lighter.

Evidence presented at the inquest indicated that Chae had been in and out of prison and had struggled with his mental health.

He had been prescribed anti-depressants, the doses of which had not proved fully effective.

He had reported low mood, anxiety and presented feelings of paranoia – with voices in his head telling him he was “worthless”.

He also had thoughts of self harm.

The inquest heard how Chae had been referred to the Amy Evans Centre and the Community Mental Health Team, but appointments had been missed.

Consultant pathologist at the UHW, Dr Rhiannon Morgan said traces of ethanol, cocaine and cannabis had been found in his blood at the post-mortem.

Chae left a note and video messages for his family and former girlfriend apologising for his act.

Mr Atherton said: “Chae did in fact end his own life. It was unfortunate he wasn’t fully compliant with the community health team.”

Chae’s family is raising awareness of mental health issues.

For information, visit www.gofalcymru.org.uk