Formal complaint made about video showing officer targeting black motorist
A formal complaint has been made about a video posted on social media showing an officer from Cambridgeshire Constabulary telling a motorist he had been pulled over “because you’re a black male”.
The complaint has been referred to the Independent Office for Police Conduct (IOPC) by the force’s Professional Standards Department.
The video was shot in Ely five years ago but has received widespread attention in the wake of the protests following the death of George Floyd in the US.
The officer involved has not been identified. Cambridgeshire Constabulary said it would not be appropriate for the force to comment on the latest development as the matter is now under investigation.
The force re-released a statement issued by Chief Constable Nick Dean earlier this week in which he said: “I can understand why such a video clip would be concerning, especially with the current events surrounding the death of George Floyd.
“Last week a joint statement was released by the National Police Chiefs’ Council, Superintendents’ Association and Police Federation. It stated: ‘The relationship between the police and the public in the UK is strong but there is always more to do. Every day, up and down the country, officers and staff are working to strengthen those relationships and address concerns. Only by working closely with our communities do we build trust and help keep people safe.’
“Here in Cambridgeshire we have been and are committed to strengthening our ties with every community. With regards to this particular incident, I want to be clear that it was filmed in Ely more than five years ago and we do not believe that any formal complaint was ever received in relation to the officer’s actions.
“I want to reassure you that I am committed to ensuring all officers and staff act with the upmost integrity and professionalism.”
