The Authority oversaw a Police investigation into a complaint that officers assaulted a man while arresting him in the process of serving a Police Safety Order at his house. The man allegedly resisted and obstructed Police.
The man also complained that Police stole a significant amount of money from his wallet and his golf clubs from his work van.
He made additional complaints about how he was treated in custody, lack of medical care and Police’s response when he complained to them about the alleged theft of his property.
Police reviewed CCTV footage of the man’s time in custody, reviewed accounts from the officers involved, the complainant and a person living in the house at the time, obtained medical records and reviewed custody documentation. The Authority also reviewed this material.
Police found that officers did not use excessive force when arresting the man, he was cared for appropriately in custody and his personal items were not stolen. Police accepted the personal items he was carrying when he was arrested, such as his wallet, keys and phone, should have been properly recorded and stored while he was in custody.
The Authority agreed with Police’s findings in the most part, although we disagreed that the officers were justified in striking the man in the head in order to bring him under control. We also disagreed that it was appropriate to place him in a tear-resistant gown while in custody.
We are satisfied that Police conducted a thorough investigation and accept the outcome.
IPCA: 23-19588