Man attempts to self-harm during arrest - Metropolitan Police Service, November 2017

On 6 November 2017, two Metropolitan Police Service detective constables went to an address in south-east London in order to conduct arrest enquiries regarding a burglary. While they were there, a man attempted to hang himself.

The officers assisted the man and called for other units and the London Ambulance Service (LAS) for further help. The man was briefly arrested and handcuffed.

On apparent deterioration of his condition, the officers removed the man’s handcuffs and put him in the recovery position. Officers stayed with the man until the LAS arrived.

The man was taken to hospital and treated for his injuries, which were non-life threatening.

Our investigators attended the scene, spoke to neighbours, and searched for CCTV cameras. We reviewed body-worn video footage recovered from the officers, which had captured the whole incident. We also obtained statements from the officers involved. Officers were treated as witnesses throughout.

We were unable to obtain an account from the man involved due to ongoing issues with his mental health.

Based on the evidence available we found no indication that any person serving with the police may have behaved in a manner that would justify the bringing of disciplinary proceedings, or had committed a criminal offence.

After reviewing our report, the MPS agreed.