Official watchdog may investigate officer pictured kicking stunned suspect in Brighton

Sussex Police may ask an independent watchdog to investigate after an officer was captured on video kicking a man.

The case involves an unnamed officer felling a man who had just been stunned with a taser as he was arrested for shoplifting.

The force has not referred the case to the Independent Police Complaints Commission but may consider doing so.

The video, which shows the man being kicked from behind as he falls to the ground from the electric shock of the taser, has been uploaded to YouTube.

The force said: “At 6.18pm on Friday 5 July we received a report that a member of staff at Sainsbury’s, Western Road, Brighton, had been pushed to the ground by a man who was attempting to steal food and drink from the store.

“Local officers found the man at the seafront near by and at 6.33pm they used a taser to carry out an arrest.

“The man was arrested on suspicion of assault and theft and received health checks to ensure that he was unharmed. No serious injury was sustained.

“He was later released on police bail until (Friday) 26 July while inquiries continue into those alleged offences.

“A video of the incident has been brought to Sussex Police’s attention which appears to show an officer kicking the leg of the man who had been tasered a short time before.”

Evidence

Chief Inspector Paul Betts, of Brighton and Hove Division, said: “I recognise how this incident may look to members of the public and we will be looking at evidence from all available sources. We will then make a decision on what further action is necessary.

“It is for this reason that the incident has been referred to our Professional Standards Department so that a full assessment can take place to consider all of the circumstances surrounding the incident, including those leading up to the man being tasered.

“I can’t comment specifically on the actions during this arrest until this PSD investigation is complete.

“However, I can provide some information about the restraint techniques officers are trained to use.

“All officers are taught a number of techniques to assist in the control and restraint of suspects.

“Specific training also covers ensuring the welfare of someone who has been tasered.

“One of the approved and taught techniques is a sweeping strike to a suspect’s leg to assist in achieving control.

“As part of the investigation into this incident, consideration will be given as to whether the use of force was proportionate and if it was appropriate to be used in this situation.

“All suggestions of police misconduct are taken very seriously, with action taken whenever appropriate.

“We will be able to provide further information when this investigation has concluded.”

“At this time this incident has not been referred to the Independent Police Complaints Commission as it does not meet the requirements for a mandatory referral.

“If it is felt during the course of the investigation that it would benefit from a referral to the IPCC then this will be considered.”