Police used spit hood and handcuffs on ‘distressed’ 91-year-old lady
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91-year-old lady had a taser pointed at her and a spit hood put over her head by police after a dispute together with her carer.
The Metropolitan Police stated that the aged lady was “distressed” and allegedly spat at one officer once they have been referred to as to her dwelling in Peckham, south-east London, on May 9.
She was handcuffed, had a mesh spit hood positioned over her head and a Taser skilled on her earlier than she was taken to hospital with out being arrested.
It is claimed she was left with cuts and bruising to each wrists and certainly one of her arms.
Watchdog the Independent Office for Police Conduct (IOPC) is investigating what occurred.
One officer has already been suspended and isn’t allowed to make use of Taser whereas the investigation is carried out, and 5 different officers have been positioned on restricted duties so that they don’t have any contact with the general public.
Officers know that they need to have the ability to justify any use of pressure or restraint and we’ll count on that of the officers concerned on this incident
A member of the girl’s household has been allowed to look at footage of what occurred from the officers’ physique worn video cameras.
Detective Chief Superintendent Seb Adjei-Addoh stated: “There are limits to what I am able to say in relation to this incident given it is now subject to an IOPC investigation. However, it is clear that this will have been a distressing experience for the lady involved and that the circumstances raise a number of questions that need to be answered.
“While I do not wish to pre-judge this process, officers know that they must be able to justify any use of force or restraint and we will expect that of the officers involved in this incident.
“They also know that we expect them to show compassion and to adjust their approach in real time according to the circumstances they are faced with.
“I am committed to transparency in relation to this incident. I am already in contact with our key partners and will keep them, and those directly involved, informed as our inquiries progress.”
The IOPC launched an investigation on May 17 after the Met referred the case to the watchdog.
A member of the general public additionally made a criticism to the IOPC concerning the pressure that was used.
An IOPC spokesman stated: “We have received a public complaint concerning the level of force that was used and the injuries it is alleged the woman sustained, including cuts and bruising on both her wrists and one arm.
“We have been in touch with the woman’s family to explain our role.”