Investigation launched following arrest in Finsbury Park, London

The Independent Office for Police Conduct has launched an independent investigation into the conduct of two Metropolitan Police Service (MPS) officers when making an arrest in Finsbury Park, London on 16 July 2020. This follows a voluntary referral from the MPS.

One officer has been advised that they are subject to a criminal investigation for Common Assault and investigation for Gross Misconduct on use of force; authority, respect and courtesy; discreditable conduct and honesty and integrity. A second officer has been advised they are subject to a misconduct investigation on challenging and reporting improper conduct; authority, respect and courtesy and honesty and integrity.

We have also launched a witness appeal. We would like to hear from anyone who witnessed the arrest on Isledon Road, London N7, on Thursday 16 July 2020 when a black man was stopped and restrained by two MPS officers.

IOPC Regional Director Sal Naseem said: “We are independently examining whether the use of force and the stop and search on this occasion were appropriate and proportionate in line with approved police policies. We will also investigate whether the officers treated the man differently because of his race.

“This incident took place in public and was witnessed by several members of the public. A video of the incident has been widely shared on social media platforms.

“We would ask anybody who was in the area that day and saw police activity to get in touch with us.”

Did you see anything? If so, please call our incident line on 03003035724 or email [email protected]