Two Hampshire police officers are under investigation for potential gross misconduct following the arrest and handcuffing of Henry Nowak, an 18-year-old student who was fatally stabbed in Southampton. The Independent Office for Police Conduct (IOPC) confirmed the inquiry, citing evidence that the officers may have breached professional standards.
Henry Nowak was stabbed by Vickrum Digwa, 23, on 3 December 2025 in Southampton. He told officers he had been stabbed and was struggling to breathe, but they allegedly disregarded his pleas and failed to recognise he was fatally wounded. Instead of providing first aid, officers restrained him in handcuffs as he lay dying.
IOPC Investigation and Potential Misconduct
The IOPC is examining whether the officers violated standards relating to duties and responsibilities, use of force, and discreditable conduct. One officer is specifically investigated for dismissing the teenager's claim of being stabbed. The watchdog is also considering whether race or religion influenced the officers' decision-making.
Henry's family has been notified of the investigation. IOPC director of engagement Derrick Campbell said: "We continue to extend our deepest sympathies to Henry's family and friends. Our investigators met with Henry's family earlier this month where we were able to discuss our investigation with them in depth, now that criminal proceedings have concluded."
Details of the Incident and Aftermath
Henry Nowak, from Chafford Hundred in Essex, was a first-year accountancy and finance student at the University of Southampton. His murder sparked intense protests after police bodycam footage showed the dying teenager being handcuffed. Digwa was sentenced to life imprisonment last month; a court heard he told police a "wicked lie" that he was the victim of a racist attack.
Campbell added: "We are obliged to constantly review the evidence obtained throughout our investigations and assess any indications of potential misconduct for officers involved. As a result, two officers will now face gross misconduct investigations. There is clear evidence that public confidence in the force may have been seriously harmed by this incident, and that is a factor we must consider when assessing the evidence."
Next Steps
The serving of gross misconduct notices does not necessarily mean disciplinary proceedings will follow. At the end of the investigation, the IOPC will decide whether any officers should face disciplinary proceedings.
