A WATCHDOG is investigating claims that handcuffs were used on a dying man following a police crash.

The Independent Office for Police Conduct (IOPC) has confirmed today that they are investigating claims that Arthur Holscher-Ermert was handcuffed after he was struck by a police car on Saturday. 

Mr Holscher-Ermert sustained fatal injuries in the crash near the junction of Dorothy Avenue in Peacehaven. He died at the scene.

The IOPC has confirmed that Mr Holscher-Ermert was driving an Audi which was being pursued by another police car after it came to the attention of officers conducting the operation in the Newhaven and Peacehaven.

Police said the short chase ended in Bramber Avenue where Mr Holscher-Ermert left the Audi and was struck moments later by the second police vehicle which had not been involved in the pursuit.

A Sussex Police Constable was formally notified by the IOPC today that he is under criminal investigation for the offence of causing death by dangerous driving. 

The officer will also be investigated for potential gross misconduct.

As part of the investigation, the IOPC will be investigating the claims from eyewitnesses that Mr Holscher-Ermert was handcuffed after being struck. 

IOPC Regional Director Graham Beesley said: “It is important we establish why Mr Holscher-Ermert was being pursued by the police including what, if any, information the police had about him or the vehicle he was driving.  

“We will also consider whether the actions of officers afterwards were in line with policy and procedure. 

“This will include looking at the aftercare given to him.

"We are aware of reports handcuffs were applied to Mr Holscher-Ermert at the scene and this will form part of our investigation.

“We understand the concern this incident has caused in the community and I would like to reassure everyone that we will carry out a thorough and independent investigation to establish exactly what happened and why.”