Sussex Police Officer To Be Investigated Over Brighton Arrest

Thursday, 6 August 2020 12:00

By John Warburton @Warblefly

Investigation into Sussex Police Officer: Independent Office for Police Conduct

A Sussex Police officer is to be subjected to a misconduct investigation by the Independent Office for Police Conduct (IOPC), where investigators will ask him to give an account of his use of force.

The investigation follows an incident where a man was restrained following his arrest in Brighton on 7 July.

Video footage showing only part of the incident was shared widely on social media.

The IOPC said today (August 6) that its investigation will focus a use of force prior to the footage, made in the street, being taken.

Its main concern, the authority added, is not on the restraint of the man on the ground.

IPOC officials said that body worn video in relation to the whole interaction was seen by the IOPC and Sussex Police Professional Standards Department.

It was this that resulted in Sussex Police referring only the matter relating to the interaction prior to the restraint in the street.

IOPC Regional Director Sarah Green said:

"Having examined a range of evidence including body worn video and witness statements, we have taken the decision that this is now an investigation for misconduct.

"An investigation does not mean that misconduct proceedings will necessarily follow."

The IOPC stated that its investigation resulted from a conduct referral from Sussex Police following the incident when police were attempting to locate a missing teenager at an address in Montpelier Road, Brighton.

They arrested a man, 28, on suspicion of threats to cause criminal damage and, following the arrest, further restraint was required by the officers.

Sussex Police said:

"The officer has not been suspended but is working non-public facing duties pending the outcome of the IOPC investigation.

"Advice was sought from specialist staff safety trainers in relation to the restraint and the technique used, which is approved by the Home Office, and this was considered appropriate and proportionate."