An investigation has been launched after footage emerged appearing to show a police officer kneeling on a man before punching him during an arrest in Essex. The video, filmed in Grosvenor Road, Westcliff, Southend-on-Sea, on Saturday, has sparked widespread criticism and led to the officer being placed on reduced duties.
The clip shows multiple officers detaining a man as onlookers accuse police of being 'heavy handed'. The suspect, a 32-year-old, was arrested on suspicion of offences including drink driving, driving while disqualified, possession of a Class B drug, and assaulting an emergency worker. Police said the man allegedly tried to bite an officer before being taken to the ground.
Sam Adams, 55, of Southend Stand Up To Racism, described the footage as 'shocking viewing', adding that the response 'does not match the threat'. She claimed the man was restrained and posed no threat, questioning the need for force. Another resident, Jordan Conaty, 26, called for urgent attention, saying the man was 'combative verbally' but not lashing out.
Independent councillor Martin Terry stressed the need for balance between robust policing and unnecessary violence. Essex Police referred the incident to the Independent Office for Police Conduct, stating that an officer reported being assaulted during the arrest. The arrested man was taken to hospital for treatment and later released under investigation.
