Skip to content

Learning for Met officer over Finsbury Park arrest

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

All IOPC reports
Published
2021-07-29
Investigation type
independent
Force involved
Metropolitan Police Service

What was investigated

A Metropolitan Police Service officer's actions during the arrest and restraint of a 48-year-old Black man in Finsbury Park were investigated by the IOPC after footage showed an officer kneeling on the man's neck. The investigation assessed the appropriateness of the use of force and whether the officers acted differently due to the man's race.

Key findings

  • One officer had a case to answer for misconduct concerning the use of excessive force.
  • One officer had a case to answer for misconduct regarding authority, respect, and courtesy.
  • No evidence was found that officers treated the man differently because of his race.
  • The stop and search was initiated appropriately based on the information available.
  • The second officer did not breach professional standards.
  • The CPS decided not to pursue charges after a file was passed.
  • The IOPC found no misconduct by the second officer.
  • Reflective practice was deemed appropriate for the officer with misconduct concerns.

Outcome

The investigation concluded with no criminal action against the officer, but misconduct proceedings were initiated regarding the use of force and inappropriate communication. Reflective practice was recommended to help prevent future issues.

Read the full report on policeconduct.gov.uk

Related on BlueLineHub

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.