Source: New Zealand Police (District News)
Police acknowledge and accept the Independent Police Conduct Authority’s (IPCA) findings in relation to an incident in Invercargill in July 2020 which found the force used during an arrest was unjustified.
“The use of force when Police were dealing with a disorderly behaviour event, was not justified on this occasion. Using a headlock as a restraint method is not an approved or a current tactic, and the actions of the officer have not met the high standard we have of our staff,” says Southland Area Commander Inspector Mike Bowman.
A criminal investigation into this matter has been completed and a decision was made not to file any charges against the officer. This decision was made following the recommendation of a national advisory panel.
However, the officer involved is subject to an ongoing employment investigation.
ENDS
Issued by Police Media Centre
