Investigation into Officers Following Teen's Injury
Six Metropolitan Police officers are under investigation after a black child sustained a broken knee during a stop and search in north London, according to the police watchdog.
The 16-year-old boy was stopped while riding an electric bike along Northumberland Park in Tottenham in April 2025. An officer forced him off the bike due to concerns about his behaviour, the Independent Office for Police Conduct (IOPC) reported.
The IOPC initiated an investigation in November to examine the level of force used, whether the boy's race or age influenced the officers' treatment, and the aftercare provided.
The Metropolitan Police, contacted for comment, made a mandatory referral to the IOPC following a complaint lodged on the boy’s behalf regarding his treatment by officers.
During the search, nothing was found. Officers removed the battery from the boy’s electric bike and told him he could leave. However, they returned shortly after and arrested him on suspicion of a racially aggravated public order offence, threats to kill, and dangerous driving.
The officers attempted to take the boy into custody, but he refused and instructed them to take him to hospital, where he was diagnosed with a fractured knee, the IOPC stated.
Criminal and Misconduct Investigations
Since January, three police constables have been criminally investigated. One officer faces potential charges of assault occasioning grievous bodily harm or actual bodily harm. The other two officers are investigated for potentially encouraging or assisting an offence under section 44 of the Serious Crime Act 2007. These officers are also under investigation for possible gross misconduct.
Additionally, three more police constables are being investigated for potential misconduct related to alleged failures to challenge the conduct of the other officers and their treatment of the boy.
Detective Superintendent Marco Bardetti commented on the case:
"These are serious allegations which will be concerning to the public. It is important an independent and thorough investigation be carried out to ensure all of the circumstances can be fully examined."
He acknowledged the public concern such incidents generate and added:
"We remain committed to maintaining an open dialogue and providing reassurance to the community while the investigation progresses."
Body-Cam Footage and Evidence Review
IOPC Director Amanda Rowe emphasised the importance of proportionality in stop and search procedures:
"The use of stop and search is an important policing tool, however it must be used proportionately.
This is a serious case where a child has been injured as a result of force being used and we are investigating the officers' actions in this case and their treatment of the child, who was not provided with immediate first aid.
We have been in contact with the boy's family and obtained further evidence to assist our investigation. We will continue to keep all parties updated as the investigation progresses."
As part of the inquiry, the IOPC has reviewed officers' body-worn video footage, collected statements from some officers involved, obtained a statement from the boy, and examined medical evidence.
The officers will be interviewed under caution, and additional witness statements are being gathered.
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