The actions of armed police who surrounded and arrested a 13-year-old boy after an officer mistook his water pistol for a real gun were “reasonable in the circumstances”, the Independent Office for Police Conduct has ruled.
The watchdog launched an investigation when the boy’s mother complained about the actions of officers during the arrest, in Hackney, east London, on 19 July 2023.
The complaints included allegations of adultification and discrimination by officers against the child, who is Black.
IOPC regional director Charmaine Arbouin acknowledged the incident caused distress to the child involved and his family.
“Being arrested, handcuffed and searched by armed officers would have been a frightening experience for anyone, let alone a 13-year-old. We note the Met Police has apologised to the boy’s family for the distress caused,” she said.
“Police officers have a duty to protect the public from harm and the evidence from our investigation supported the first officer’s belief that he thought he may have seen a real firearm.
“The decision to send armed officers to the scene following the report of a firearm was in line with guidance and, based on the evidence we obtained, we found no indication that any officers behaved in a manner that would justify bringing disciplinary proceedings.”
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