Sussex Police face questions after suspect Tasered in Brighton

The Argus produced images of the arrest on Brighton seafront yesterday after a member of the public captured the incident on video.

Footage appeared to show a uniformed officer kicking a suspected shoplifter to the floor after he had been stunned by a Taser gun.

After being shown the footage by The Argus, Sussex Police said it would be conducting an internal investigation, adding it took all suggestions of misconduct seriously.

However yesterday, the force had still not referred the matter to the Independent Police Complaints Commission (IPCC).

Sophie Khan, who specialises in Taser-related incidents for McMillan Williams Solicitors, said the use of the Taser in this instance was “definitely questionable”.

She said: “I think there’s better understanding of Taser use since they were introduced but the public need to knowthe impact Tasers have and when they should be used.

“They should be only used if the individual is posing a threat to the safety of the police or public order.

“Where individuals do not have a weapon and are already cornered, the use of the Taser would be unjustifiable.

They should use traditional police methods, not the Taser.”

Chief Inspector Paul Betts of Brighton and Hove Division said: "I recognise how this incident may look to members of the public and we will be looking at evidence from all available sources.

"We will then make a decision on what further action is necessary.

“It is for this reason that the incident has been referred to our Professional Standards Department so that a full assessment can take place to consider all of the circumstances surrounding the incident, including those leading up to the man being Tasered.

"All officers are taught a number of techniques to assist in the control and restraint of suspects. 

“One of the approved and taught techniques is a sweeping strike to a suspect's leg to assist in achieving control.

"As part of the investigation into this incident, consideration will be given as to whether the use of force was proportionate and if it was appropriate to be used in this situation.

"All suggestions of police misconduct are taken very seriously, with action taken whenever appropriate.”

• Watch the video:

Despite being elected to hold the police to account, Sussex Police and Crime Commissioner Katy Bourne refused to be drawn on whether there was any possible wrongdoing.

Mrs Bourne said: “This is an operational matter for which Sussex Police will take the lead for investigating and comment upon in due course.”

Brighton Pavilion MP Caroline Lucas said: “This is clearly a very concerning episode and I have asked Sussex Police to let me knowthe outcome of their internal inquiry as soon as it is available.

“Tasers are deeply controversial – the public must be able to feel confident the police are using them appropriately.”

But Hove MP Mike Weatherley said: “I'm not going to instantly condemn the police officer here.

“I want to know the background and what prompted this level of force. They have a tough job to do and there are times when tempers inevitably flare.”

Police were initially called to Sainsbury’s in Western Road, Brighton, at about 6.15pm on Friday following a complaint that a member of staff had been pushed to the ground by a man attempting to steal food.

A force spokeswoman said the Tasered man was arrested on suspicion of theft and obstructing officers.

He has since been bailed until July 26 while enquiries continue.

Chief Inspector Paul Betts of Brighton and Hove Division said: "I recognise how this incident may look to members of the public and we will be looking at evidence from all available sources. We will then make a decision on what further action is necessary.

“It is for this reason that the incident has been referred to our Professional Standards Department so that a full assessment can take place to consider all of the circumstances surrounding the incident, including those leading up to the man being Tasered.

“I can’t comment specifically on the actions during this arrest until this PSD investigation is complete, however I can provide some information about the restraint techniques officers are trained to use. All officers are taught a number of techniques to assist in the control and restraint of suspects. Specific training also covers ensuring the welfare of someone who has been Tasered.

“One of the approved and taught techniques is a sweeping strike to a suspect's leg to assist in achieving control. As part of the investigation into this incident, consideration will be given as to whether the use of force was proportionate and if it was appropriate to be used in this situation.

"All suggestions of police misconduct are taken very seriously, with action taken whenever appropriate. We will be able to provide further information when this investigation has concluded.”