Force used to detain man reasonable

The Independent Office for Police Conduct (IOPC) has determined that force used by two officers during an incident in Fulham was reasonable.

The officers, who are both attached to the Met’s Specialist Firearms Command, will not face any disciplinary action following the mistaken arrest of a man in Fulham Palace Road, SW6 on 4 September 2024.

The man was later de-arrested as soon as officers were able to confirm that he was not involved in the matter they were dealing with.

The incident was investigated by the IOPC following a voluntary referral by the Met’s Directorate of Professional Standards and a public complaint.

Having carefully examined all the available evidence, the IOPC found no case to answer for any officer for misconduct.

They also found no evidence the officers treated the man differently due to his race.

Commander Owain Richards said: “We are pleased the IOPC was able to determine the officers acted in good faith and appropriately. This was a fast-moving incident during which they were trying to detain three men who had fled from police during a pursuit. Their use of force was reasonable in the circumstances.

“Mr Richards was swiftly de-arrested as soon as officers confirmed he was not a suspect, but we absolutely acknowledge how distressing it must have been to be caught up in such an incident.

“We would be happy to meet him to discuss what happened should he wish to do so.”