IOPC investigates West Midlands Police use of force on football fan
Factual summary of a published IOPC investigation, covering the incident, key findings and outcome.
All IOPC reports
- Published
- 2024-02-23
- Investigation type
- independent
- Force involved
- West Midlands Police
What was investigated
The IOPC is investigating complaints regarding the use of force by two officers on a football fan after a match. The incident occurred at the Bescot Stadium on 4 March 2023, following an altercation involving the complainant and a steward.
Key findings
- Officers are under investigation for gross misconduct.
- The incident involved the use of force on a football fan.
- The complainant was arrested for assaulting police but cleared in court.
- Footage of the incident has been circulated in the media.
- Complaints were made about police withholding evidence.
- Investigators have reviewed police body worn and CCTV footage.
Outcome
The investigation is ongoing, and a decision on whether the officers have a case to answer will be made at the end.
Related on BlueLineHub
- Accountability hub — how oversight of UK policing works
- IOPC outcomes & learning feed
- West Midlands Police force profile
Reviewed by the BlueLineHub Editorial Team
Last reviewed: 14 July 2026 · Next review due: 14 January 2027
This is a factual summary of a report published by the Independent Office for Police Conduct. Individuals are referred to exactly as the source report anonymises them. BlueLineHub is independent and not affiliated with the IOPC · Summarised 2026-07-14.