IOPC launches independent investigation into questioning of black couple in Ipswich
Factual summary of a published IOPC investigation, covering the incident, key findings and outcome.
- Published
- 2020-07-16
- Investigation type
- independent
- Force involved
- Suffolk Constabulary
What was investigated
The IOPC has started an investigation into a complaint of harassment and racial profiling after police officers stopped and questioned a couple in Ipswich on 9 June 2020. A video of the incident shows a police officer asking for identification after the man stepped out of his car on a private driveway.
Key findings
- A complaint was made regarding harassment and racial profiling.
- The incident involved a stop and questioning of a couple.
- The couple was not searched or arrested.
- Video evidence of the incident was widely shared on social media.
- The complaint was initially referred to the Professional Standards Department.
- The IOPC assessed the incident as requiring independent investigation.
- Concerns were raised about public confidence in policing.
- The investigation will examine the appropriateness of the officers' actions.
Outcome
The investigation is currently in its early stages. Further assessments and findings will be made as the investigation progresses.
Related on BlueLineHub
- Accountability hub — how oversight of UK policing works
- IOPC outcomes & learning feed
- Suffolk Constabulary force profile
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.