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IOPC investigating conduct of two officers in Henry Nowak case

Factual summary of a published IOPC investigation, covering the incident, key findings and outcome.

All IOPC reports
Published
2026-07-01
Investigation type
independent
Force involved
Hampshire and Isle of Wight Constabulary

What was investigated

The IOPC is investigating the actions of two officers who responded to an incident involving Henry Nowak before his death. The investigation focuses on potential gross misconduct concerning the officers' handling of the situation, including their failure to provide immediate medical attention and the decision to arrest Henry instead.

Key findings

  • Two officers are under investigation for potential gross misconduct.
  • Evidence indicates a failure to recognize Henry needed urgent medical attention.
  • Officers allegedly did not provide immediate first aid after Henry indicated he had been stabbed.
  • One officer may have breached standards of authority, respect, and courtesy.
  • There may be implications of bias concerning race and religion.
  • There are concerns about discrepancies in treatment between Henry and the Digwa family.
  • The HIOWC control room's actions and decisions are being examined.
  • The incident may have harmed public confidence in the police.

Outcome

The investigation is ongoing, and a final decision on disciplinary proceedings will be made after reviewing all evidence.

Read the full report on policeconduct.gov.uk

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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.