Met Police officer faces prisoner assault allegation

A Metropolitan Police officer has been placed on restricted duties while allegations of an assault on a teenage prisoner are investigated.

The alleged assault happened on the same day as a separate alleged incident of racial abuse by a different officer, leading to that officer's suspension.

The two reported incidents happened on 11 August as police dealt with the fallout of the riots in the capital.

Following the alleged incident the Met Commissioner spoke out against racism.

Meanwhile the police watchdog is investigating the actions of the officers.

'Commitment to fairness'

Met Commander Peter Spindler said: "We are taking these allegations extremely seriously.

"Any use of racist language or excessive use of force is totally unacceptable; at the conclusion of any criminal proceedings we will instigate the appropriate internal action."

The Independent Police Complaints Commission (IPCC) is investigating the actions of the two officers and a third officer who remains on full duties.

Following the development, Met Commissioner Bernard Hogan-Howe addressed the force via an internal broadcast.

He said: "I'm sure that you've all been as shocked as I have been about the recent reports of apparent racist remarks and alleged assault by some officers in Newham in August of last year.

"I wanted to take this opportunity to clearly and categorically reiterate that there is no place for racism in the Met.

"Unfortunately just one alleged incident like this can be very damaging to public confidence."

Stressing that they were not prejudging the guilt or innocence of the suspects, he continued: "What we have heard over the last few days is of course completely at odds with all the close work that goes on with communities across London every day.

"I want us all to go out there and remind those communities of our commitment to fairness and professionalism.

"I will not stand for any racism or racists in the Met."