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IOPC investigation clears police officers over shooting of two dogs in East London

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

All IOPC reports
Published
2025-01-10
Investigation type
independent
Force involved
Metropolitan Police Service

What was investigated

We have finished our investigation into the actions of officers from the Metropolitan Police Service and City of London Police during an incident in Poplar, east London, where a man was Tasered and his two dogs fatally shot after police responded to a report that a woman and her dog had been attacked.

Key findings

  • No indication that any officers behaved in a manner which would justify disciplinary action.
  • No criminal offence committed by any officers.
  • All officers were treated as witnesses throughout the investigation.
  • Investigation began on 12 May 2023 due to referrals of complaints.
  • Reviewed body worn video, CCTV footage, mobile phone footage, and the 999 call.
  • Considerations were made regarding the adequacy of dog handler resources.
  • Expert advice was obtained on various relevant topics.
  • Investigation concluded in September.

Outcome

The investigation found no case to answer regarding the actions of the officers involved.

Read the full report on policeconduct.gov.uk

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Reviewed by the BlueLineHub Editorial Team
Last reviewed: 13 July 2026 · Next review due: 13 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 2026-07-13.