A Greater Manchester Police officer has been permanently barred from the force after shocking CCTV footage emerged showing him dragging a handcuffed vulnerable man across a custody suite floor.
The disturbing incident, which occurred at a Manchester police station, has been condemned as 'an abuse of power' by the Independent Office for Police Conduct (IOPC), which led the investigation.
Shocking CCTV Evidence
The footage reveals Police Constable James Dyson pulling the distressed man across the floor by his handcuffs while another officer follows behind. The incident unfolded after the individual had been arrested on suspicion of a public order offence and brought into custody.
According to investigators, the man was in a highly vulnerable state throughout the ordeal. The IOPC emphasised that the officer's actions constituted 'unnecessary and disproportionate force' against someone who posed no threat.
Gross Misconduct Finding
PC Dyson faced a disciplinary panel where he was found guilty of gross misconduct. The panel determined that his actions breached professional standards relating to authority, respect, and courtesy, as well as the use of force.
IOPC Regional Director Catherine Bates stated: 'The officer's actions fell well below the standards expected of someone in his position. Dragging a handcuffed and vulnerable man across the floor in this manner was an abuse of power and has no place in policing.'
Zero Tolerance Approach
Greater Manchester Police has confirmed the officer's immediate dismissal following the panel's decision. A police spokesperson reiterated the force's commitment to maintaining high standards and taking appropriate action when those standards aren't met.
This case highlights ongoing concerns about police conduct in custody settings and comes amid increased scrutiny of how officers handle vulnerable individuals during detention.
