A Metropolitan Police officer has been found guilty of assault after CCTV footage revealed him grabbing a 15-year-old fare dodger by the throat and applying a headlock during an arrest at Stratford Station.
PC Perry Lathwood, 50, was convicted at Westminster Magistrates' Court after the incident which occurred on July 29 last year. The court heard how the confrontation escalated when the teenager attempted to evade paying his train fare.
Shocking CCTV Evidence
The footage presented in court showed PC Lathwood seizing the teenager by the neck and forcing him into a headlock position. The prosecution argued that the officer's use of force was "unreasonable and unnecessary" given the circumstances.
District Judge Neeta Minhas ruled that PC Lathwood's actions constituted assault, stating that the force used went beyond what was justified for the situation.
Police Response and Consequences
The Metropolitan Police confirmed that the officer has been placed on restricted duties pending the outcome of misconduct proceedings. A spokesperson for the force stated they take all allegations of assault seriously and are reviewing the court's findings.
British Transport Police, who initially investigated the incident, welcomed the court's decision, emphasising that all officers are expected to maintain professional standards when dealing with the public.
Broader Implications
This case comes amid ongoing scrutiny of police conduct and use of force, particularly when dealing with young people. The conviction raises important questions about appropriate restraint techniques and de-escalation procedures in minor offence situations.
The teenager involved in the incident cannot be named for legal reasons due to his age. The court heard he sustained minor injuries during the arrest but did not require significant medical treatment.
