Police Ombudsman’s Office investigating incident involving teenager with ‘complex needs’
The Police Ombudsman’s Office says it is currently assessing “a range of information” about an incident involving police and a teenage female with “complex needs” at a shop in Lisburn in Northern Ireland.
Footage of the incident on Sunday December 22 has been posted on social media, and the Police Ombudsman’s Office says it has also been notified about the incident by the Police Service for Northern Ireland (PSNI).
In a statement it said: “Our investigators are gathering and assessing relevant police documentation, as well as CCTV footage, and have reviewed police body-worn video.
“We are also seeking to obtain further information about what happened from the family involved.
“These enquiries will inform a decision as to whether there are any issues regarding the conduct of the officers involved which require further investigation.”
The PSNI’s Lisburn and Castlereagh district commander, Superintendent Kelly Moore said: “We are aware of video footage which is circulating on social media in which officers are seen to be carrying a female from a shop.
“Police were called by the female’s mother to provide assistance in the Bow Street area of Lisburn at 6.15pm on Sunday December 22. The shop was closing its shutters when a female entered the premises.
“Officers attended and after discussions with family and staff members for approximately 20 minutes, a 19-year-old female with complex needs was removed from the shop by a family member, assisted by police. One officer was injured during the course of the incident.
“This was a very difficult and complex set of circumstances for everyone involved and I have spoken to the family today to discuss their concerns. As an organisation we are committed to continuous learning and any feedback will be reviewed and considered. Our officers are routinely called to challenging situations and as in this case we will always seek a patient approach when dealing with people with complex needs.
“The Police Ombudsman for Northern Ireland has been notified of this incident not because there is any suspected criminality or inappropriate behaviour which would justify disciplinary proceedings but owing to the widespread public concern and media attention surrounding the release of a short video clip of a few seconds of this incident.”