IPCC makes referral to CPS in Penge RTI investigation

Following an investigation into the actions of two Metropolitan Police Service (MPS) officers following a fatal collision in south east London, the Independent Police Complaints Commission has referred a file to the Crown Prosecution Service (CPS) for consideration of criminal charges.

The IPCC started an investigation after a 10 year old boy and a 34 year old woman died having been struck by a vehicle being pursued by a marked MPS car, in Lennard Road, Penge on 31 August 2016. Three girls were also taken to hospital for injuries sustained in the collision.

Operations Manager Catherine Hall said:

“Following our investigation I have now decided to make a referral to the CPS as there is an indication that two officers may have committed criminal offences relating to their actions both during and following the pursuit. The referral relates to both the driver and the passenger of the police vehicle.

“I am satisfied we have gathered all the available evidence and it is now for the Crown Prosecution Service to consider whether to bring criminal charges.”

A referral to the CPS is made when the IPCC investigation indicates that a criminal offence may have been committed. It does not mean that criminal charges will necessarily follow. The CPS will decide whether charges should be brought, based on the test set out in the Code for Crown Prosecutors.

The IPCC investigation report has also been sent to the MPS to determine whether or not disciplinary proceedings should follow.

In March 2017, Joshua Dobby, was sentenced to 12 years imprisonment after admitting manslaughter, relating to the deaths of Makayah McDermott, 10, and Rozanne Cooper, 34.