Police watchdog investigating 'disturbing' video of man being violently restrained
Man appears to be struck on or around head several times in footage filmed by member of public
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An investigation into “disturbing” viral video showing a man being restrained by five uniformed officers has been launched by the police watchdog.
West Midlands Police referred itself to the Independent Office for Police Conduct (IOPC) after footage was posted on social media showing a man being struck at least seven times on or about the head by an officer.
The male officer appears to use pepper spray in the scuffle, before the video stops abruptly as another policeman closes the door on the person filming.
The force said it had referred itself to the IOPC over the video which had “generated concern across communities”.
It added that the video showed “edited footage” but did not show the man “attack the officers with his walking sticks, injuring three of them”.
The force said in a statement: “On 25 February officers were called by a doctor who was conducting a mental health assessment in Sandwell. During the assessment, the 38-year-old man became violent and assaulted the doctor with a metal crutch, so police were called.
“The video circulating on social media shows edited footage of officers who attended but does not show the events which lead up to his restraint. The full body-worn video of the response shows the man attack the officers with his walking sticks, injuring three of them.”
It added: “The man was arrested on suspicion of assault and taken into custody. He was medically examined while in custody and he had not received any injuries. He is currently receiving treatment in a mental health facility.”
IOPC regional director Derrick Campbell said the watchdog would be investigating whether the force used by police was justified and proportionate.
He said: “The footage showing a man being struck over the head several times is disturbing and I am conscious of the widespread concern it has caused, and the impact on public confidence in policing such an incident can have.
“We need to understand the full circumstances and have started an independent investigation that will include looking at whether the use of force by officers was justified and proportionate. Police body worn video footage and statements from the officers involved have been provided by West Midlands Police and will be reviewed as part of our investigation.”
The IOPC urged anyone with phone footage to contact them.