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Mana Whanonga Pirihimana Motuhake

Home / Outcomes / 2022 Summaries of Police Investigations

Investigation into allegation of excessive force in Massey arrest

24 May 2022

The Authority oversaw a Police investigation into a complaint alleging that excessive force was used on a youth following his arrest in Massey on 14 October 2020.

The incident took place after the youth drove and then abandoned a stolen car, before hiding in a bush. He was located by Police, and he alleged that in the course of his arrest he was punched in the face and had his left arm unnecessarily twisted up behind his back.

The youth declined to make a statement when approached by Police investigating the complaint and the officer alleged to have used the excessive force denied the allegations.

Police concluded that there was insufficient evidence to support criminal charges. However, Police identified issues with the Officer’s decision-making during the incident, including his decision to involve himself in an arrest which other officers had under control. An appropriate employment process was undertaken. The Authority agrees with this outcome.

IPCA: 20-5390

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