The Authority oversaw an investigation into an allegation that an officer assaulted a man after arresting him in respect of a family harm incident.
The Police investigation was unable to determine whether the officer deliberately pushed the victim onto a fence while escorting him to the Police vehicle or whether this was the result of a struggle.
However, the investigation determined the officer subsequently struck the victim in the face while he was handcuffed. Police determined the strike was not necessary or proportionate; the officer also failed to report the force he used as required by Police policy.
Police charged the officer with assault. The officer accepted their actions were not justified and completed a diversion process resulting in the charge being dismissed. Police sanctioned the officer for their behaviour.
The Authority is satisfied Police appropriately investigated this matter.
IPCA: 22-15662