PC found not guilty of strangling girl in arrest

A trial was held at Lincoln Crown Court

A police officer has been cleared of strangling a 16-year-old girl in the back of his vehicle.

PC Kevin Markowski went on trial after denying a charge of intentionally strangling the teenager following an incident in Front Street, Arnold, Nottinghamshire, on 24 August 2022.

The 47-year-old told jurors at Lincoln Crown Court he only placed his hand on top of the girl's upper chest or breastbone and never intended to restrict her air supply.

He was found not guilty after about six hours of deliberation.

PC Markowski was visibly upset as the jury returned their not guilty verdict, and said: "Thank you ladies and gentlemen."

After the verdict was returned, Judge James House KC told PC Markowski he was now free to leave the dock.

"You have been acquitted by the jury. I formally discharge you. You are free to go," he told the officer.

Follow BBC Nottingham on Facebook, on X, or on Instagram. Send your story ideas to [e-mail] or via WhatsApp on 0808 100 2210.