Croydon: Met Police officer charged with assault by beating

PC Perry Lathwood has been charged with assault by beating

A Met Police officer has been charged with assault after a woman arrested on suspicion of fare evasion was injured.

The Independent Office for Police Conduct (IOPC) carried out an investigation after the incident in Croydon, south London, on 21 July.

It said the woman, who was later de-arrested when it was confirmed she had paid the fare, was left with bruising injuries to the arm.

PC Perry Lathwood, 49, is due to appear before magistrates next month.

'Urgent clarity' sought

The IOPC said it launched an investigation in the days following the incident and referred a file of evidence to the Crown Prosecution Service, which authorised charges against the officer.

PC Lathwood, who is attached to the Road Traffic Policing Command, will appear at Westminster Magistrates' Court on 14 February charged with assault by beating.

Ch Sup Andy Brittain, who is responsible for policing in Croydon, said: "The news that an officer has been charged with assault will undoubtedly cause a great deal of concern.

"Officers know they must be able to justify their use of force.

"The Metropolitan Police Service has written to the IOPC seeking urgent clarity on the reasons for the charging decision."

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