Police arrest footage withheld after complaint

Officers are urging islanders to avoid speculating on what they have so far seen online

Guernsey Police cannot release body cam footage of officers arresting someone after a member of the public made an official compliant, senior officers say.

The force made the announcement after mobile phone clips of the same incident at the Bridge on Saturday evening began circulating online.

One man was charged with drink-driving offences, assaulting police and resisting arrest, while two others were bailed pending further inquiries.

Chief Officer Damian Kitchen said he was "committed to transparency", but also "steadfast in ensuring police complaints law is followed".

'Professional investigation'

The police added that the body cam evidence would also form part of the court case for the person charged.

Mr Kitchen said: "'Police officers do a difficult and, at times, courageous job, but it is also quite right that people can raise concerns and complaints.

"And, when they do, I will always ensure a thorough, transparent and professional investigation takes place."

Urging islanders to avoid speculating on what they had seen online, he added: "I would ask that comment is kept factual and recognises there are often many jigsaw pieces to put together before any of us have the answer."

Officers have also asked anyone with additional video of the incident which might help with investigations to get in contact.