IOPC launches investigation after Taser used on man in Haringey

We have begun an independent investigation into the contact the Metropolitan Police Service (MPS) had with a man before he suffered a life-changing injury in Haringey, north London on Monday 4 May 2020.

The MPS made a mandatory referral to us following the incident when police on patrol approached a man, in his 20s, on Burgoyne Road, N4. Such a referral is usual practice when a person is seriously injured following direct or indirect police contact.

We understand that the man ran off and police officers chased and then Tasered him as he jumped over a wall. The man fell and suffered serious injuries.

He was arrested for alleged drug related offences and was taken to hospital where he was assessed as having a life-changing injury.

The Metropolitan Police is fully co-operating with our investigation.

IOPC Regional Director Sal Naseem said:

“This is an extremely serious incident where, we understand, a man has suffered life-changing injuries. We are in contact with his family and will keep them and him informed as we carry out our independent investigation.

“Our role is to seek answers about what happened and share any learning highlighted by our investigations. Our investigation will look at all the circumstances and consider whether there are any conduct or criminal matters.

“In line with our tradition of policing by consent, the public has the right to expect police officers to be accountable when they use force, particularly if it leads to a death or serious injury.”