Jason Hoganson, 55, who starred in the 1987 cult film Empire State, was found dead at his accommodation on April 4, just months after being released from HMP Durham. Coroner Georgina Nolan gave a narrative conclusion, saying Mr Hoganson died due to natural causes and drug use. The day after his release, Hoganson was arrested in Newcastle’s West End after going to his ex-partner’s flat and slapping her. As a former actor, he played a leading role as Pete in Empire State, but his career never took off as he became caught up in drink, drugs and crime. A post-mortem found that Hoganson died of bronco-pneumonia, with drug addiction a significant contributory factor.