Investigation begun into use of force by Gwent Police officer during arrest in Newport

The Independent Office for Police Conduct (IOPC) is investigating the use of force by a Gwent Police officer during the arrest of a man in Newport.

The incident occurred on Friday 9 July after two officers had approached a 41-year-old man in connection with alleged driving offences. It is alleged the man initially made off before an officer encountered him in a garden at Livale Court, Bettws.

An altercation ensued with the police constable apparently deploying incapacitant spray and a number of baton strikes before other officers arrived.

Our independent investigation follows a referral from Gwent Police.

IOPC Operations Manager Melanie Palmer said: “We would like to reassure members of the community that we have taken the decision to independently investigate this incident. Video footage of part of the incident has been released widely through social media.

“We will ensure we look at the full circumstances of the overall interaction Gwent Police officers had with the man in the lead up to and during the arrest. We are investigating whether the officer’s use of force was reasonable, proportionate and necessary in the situation that unfolded. We have contacted the man to explain our role and how the investigation will progress.”