Officers reportedly „used force“ to dismount a 16-year-old from his electric bike, resulting in a knee injury that was not immediately treated, according to the Independent Office for Police Conduct (IOPC).
After being searched with no contraband found, the officers allowed the boy to leave but confiscated the battery from his e-bike. Shortly thereafter, the officers returned and arrested him on charges including a racially aggravated public order offence, threats to kill, and dangerous driving. In einem ähnlichen Vorfall wurde ein 13-jähriger Junge wegen eines viralen Trends in London festgenommen.
Following a medical evaluation, the boy was denied entry to police custody and subsequently sent to a hospital, where it was determined he had sustained a fractured knee.
Criminal and Misconduct Investigations Underway
Three Metropolitan Police constables are currently facing a criminal investigation. One officer is being scrutinized for possible assault charges, including assault occasioning grievous bodily harm or actual bodily harm. The other two officers are being investigated for allegedly encouraging or assisting in the offence.
Additionally, three more constables are under investigation for potential misconduct due to their failure to challenge the actions of their colleagues regarding the treatment of the boy.
Official Statements and Ongoing Inquiry
Amanda Rowe from the IOPC stated,
„The use of stop and search is an important policing tool – however, it must be used proportionately. This is a serious case where a child has been injured as a result of force being used, and we are investigating the officers‘ actions in this case and their treatment of the child, who was not provided with immediate first aid.“
Rowe also noted that the IOPC has been in contact with the boy’s family to gather additional evidence for the investigation.
As part of the inquiry, the IOPC has reviewed body-worn camera footage from the officers involved.
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Bildquelle: Bildquelle: Markus Spiske auf Unsplash
