The Authority oversaw a Police investigation into an allegation an officer from Waikato District used excessive force when arresting a heavily pregnant woman. The officer allegedly threw the woman to the ground, which caused bruising to her face.
The Police investigation found the officer used appropriate force to restrain the complainant, because she was repeatedly kicking the officer's legs while under arrest. The officer told the investigation that he tried to guide and support the complainant when taking her to the ground.
Police identified the officer could have responded to the incident differently. They acknowledged the incident was distressing for the complainant.
The Authority agreed with the Police finding and the outcome.
IPCA: 17-2539