Former Greater Manchester Police officer Leigh Carnally has been exonerated after a five-year investigation into his arrest of a protester during a 'kill the bill' demonstration in Manchester city centre on March 20, 2021. A disciplinary hearing concluded that his actions were 'entirely appropriate,' and he received an apology from the force.
Incident Details
The confrontation occurred when Carnally, then a PC, was driving a Tactical Aid Unit van on Mount Street. Protesters, including 18-year-old Sam Brooks, approached the vehicle. According to a published disciplinary judgment, Brooks looked at the officer and shook his head, and Carnally alleged Brooks also raised his middle finger. The officer got out of the van, held Brooks by the throat, placed him in an arm lock, and handcuffed him, arresting him for an alleged breach of the peace.
Mobile phone footage of the incident sparked a complaint, leading to an internal professional standards investigation. Carnally was accused of dishonesty, unlawful arrest, and assault. However, the disciplinary panel found that Brooks's actions 'on the balance of probabilities' amounted to grounds for detention under section 5 of the Public Order Act, as the behavior was abusive and occurred in a public place.
Panel Findings
The panel noted that Brooks had refused to stop and speak to the officer, began swearing, and was non-compliant, as evidenced by body-worn video and other officers. They ruled the arrest was lawful and the use of force was at an 'acceptable level.' The panel also found Carnally was 'not dishonest' in claiming Brooks raised his middle finger, as he had made a contemporaneous note in his pocket book. However, they criticized his 'language and approach,' suggesting he 'may wish to reflect upon' it, though it did not breach police standards.
Apology and Aftermath
Assistant Chief Constable Steph Parker apologized to Carnally, stating: 'Policing is complex even in the most straightforward circumstances. In the context of policing a protest that included elements of anti police sentiment, you challenged a young male who had directed an abusive gesture towards you. It was entirely appropriate for you to do so.' She added, 'I am genuinely sorry that it has taken five years and three months to reach today’s outcome.'
The protests were part of a series of demonstrations against the Police and Crime Bill during Covid restrictions, with 18 people arrested after tramlines were blocked. The panel expressed disappointment that the incident could have been avoided 'had Brooks not simply stopped and spoken to the officer about his actions.'
