Following the tragic incident involving a dying teenager, Hampshire Police is facing criticism for handcuffing Henry Nowak, 18, as he bled from knife wounds while his attacker, Vickrum Digwa, stood by. One officer has resigned amidst the controversy, although the others have not sparked any misconduct investigations at this time.
The young student was restrained after Digwa falsely accused him of a racist attack at the scene of the stabbing last December. Video footage released by the police, authorized by Henry’s family, captures him pleading for help while an officer dismisses his claims of being stabbed.
Henry sustained fatal injuries, including stab wounds to his heart, inflicted by Digwa wielding an 8-inch blade as part of his religious beliefs. The Independent Office for Police Conduct (IOPC) will meet with Henry’s family soon to address the outrage surrounding the handling of the situation.
Although one female officer has left the force following the incident, the remaining officers involved in the bodycam footage released are still on active duty. If found guilty of gross misconduct, any officer may face termination.
The IOPC clarified that the officers present at the scene are currently considered witnesses in the ongoing investigation. The case being treated as a Death of Serious Injury incident mandates a thorough examination by the authorities.
In light of this situation, IOPC director Derrick Campbell emphasized the need to review the bodycam footage and other evidence to fully comprehend the circumstances. As the investigation progresses, the IOPC plans to update Henry Nowak’s family on the developments.
Amidst these developments, Hampshire Police confirmed the resignation of one officer involved in the Henry Nowak case. According to a spokesperson, three officers are still serving, while one has resigned. The officers remain witnesses in the ongoing investigation without facing any current restrictions.
