Officer will not face further proceedings after being cleared of dangerous driving, says IOPC
The Independent Office for Police Conduct (IOPC) has decided that armed officer PC Paul Fisher will not face misconduct or performance proceedings, after he was cleared of dangerous driving.
The Metropolitan Police Service (MPS) officer was found not guilty last month following a week-long trial at Southwark Crown Court.
PC Fisher was involved in a collision with three vehicles while en route to a terrorist incident in South London in February 2020.
Prior to the crash, PC Fisher was found to be driving at more than four times the speed limit.
Two drivers of vehicles struck in the collision sustained injuries and as a result the incident was referred to the IOPC by the MPS for investigation, which was completed in May 2021.
In a statement, the IOPC said it has decided PC Fisher will not face misconduct or performance proceedings, following the conclusion of criminal proceedings where he was cleared of dangerous driving.
It added: “In November 2023, PC Fisher was cleared of the charge following our investigation into an incident where the police vehicle he was driving crashed into three vehicles while en route to a terrorist incident in south London in February 2020.
“After the trial concluded, we reviewed our original 2021 decision in which we agreed with the MPS’ view that PC Fisher should face gross incompetence proceedings.”
IOPC regional director Mel Palmer said: “We have decided to withdraw this decision, taking into account that under the legislation gross incompetence proceedings must relate to the serious inability or failure of a police officer to perform the duties of their current role.
“We note that PC Fisher is not currently in a role which requires him to undertake urgent driving duties. We have also taken into account the impact of the trial on the officer and his family.”
The MPS said it welcomed the decision by the IOPC that armed officer PC Fisher will face “no further conduct or performance proceedings”.
The force said: “PC Fisher was found not guilty, following a trial in November 2023, of dangerous driving in connection with a collision en route to a terrorist attack in Streatham in February 2020 when Sudesh Amman stabbed two members of the public.
“Following the end of the trial the IOPC, as is routine, has reviewed next steps and decided that no further action will be taken.”
Commander Claire Smart said: “This is great news to receive and I know that it is a huge relief for both officers.”