Police Officers Cleared
Two Bedfordshire Police officers have been cleared of all charges in connection with the detaining of a man with learning difficulties in Luton.
PCs Christopher Thomas, 33, and Christopher Pitts, 39, were charged after the incident involving Faruk Ali, 33, on February 20.
PC Thomas denied racially aggravated assault and both men denied two counts of misconduct in a public office. Both were today cleared of all charges following a trial at Aylesbury Crown Court. They had been cleared of perverting the course of justice during the trial.
Chief Constable Colette Paul said: “We note the decision of the court and will be reviewing all of the evidence put forward during the trial. “The force acted swiftly after receiving the allegations against these individuals and has supported Leicestershire Police’s investigation throughout.
“I regret any distress caused to Mr Ali, the officers involved and their respective families. However, it was right that this matter was referred to an independent investigation and that a due legal process was followed.
“Both remain suspended pending the outcome of a misconduct investigation which is being carried out by Leicestershire Police and supervised by the Independent Police Complaints Commission.”
Mr Ali’s family said they would now consider launching civil proceedings.
Solicitor Attiq Malik said: “The family are absolutely shocked and distraught. Faruk Ali was helping to put out bins when he was assaulted by PC Christopher Thomas, prosecutors said, “We’ve fought really hard for justice and to bring the matter as far as we have. “It’s not going to stop here.”
