Two Hampshire police officers are under investigation for potential gross misconduct over their handling of the arrest of Henry Nowak, an 18-year-old student who was fatally stabbed in Southampton on December 3, 2025. The officers allegedly failed to provide immediate first aid and instead handcuffed him as he lay dying, despite his pleas that he could not breathe and had been stabbed.
Officers Ignored Pleas for Help
According to the Independent Office for Police Conduct (IOPC), the officers did not recognise that Henry needed urgent medical attention. One officer is also being investigated for potentially breaching conduct standards by dismissing Henry's claim that he had been stabbed. The IOPC is examining whether race or religion influenced the officers' decisions, given that the killer, Vickrum Digwa, falsely claimed he was the victim of a racist attack.
IOPC director of engagement Derrick Campbell stated: “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.”
Expanded Investigation After Family Complaints
The IOPC expanded its probe following formal complaints from Henry’s family. The case sparked outrage and protests after Digwa was jailed for life for murder in May. Henry’s father, Mark Nowak, highlighted the disparity in treatment, saying: “His murderer was afforded decency. He was believed. He was not handcuffed when arrested. He was not handcuffed when transported to the police station. As far as we understand, he was never handcuffed at all.”
Campbell added: “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.” The IOPC will decide whether disciplinary proceedings are warranted after the investigation concludes.
