A police officer has been found guilty of punching a suspect in the face after he allegedly spat in his mouth.

Police Constable Rohan Scarlett from Croydon was accused of assaulting Andrew Uba as he put him in a police van on February 20.

The 47-year-old, based in Lewisham, was on duty and transferring the prisoner from Islington police station when the incident happened, Highbury Magistrates Court heard.

As PC Scarlett put the prisoner in the police van it is alleged the prisoner spat in his face.

Then PC Scarlett got into the van and punched the prisoner and was pulled from being on top of the prisoner by two colleagues.

After pulling him off one of the officers arrested Scarlett on suspicion of grievous bodily harm.

PC Scarlett, who has been suspended from his job, was found guilty of common assault yesterday.

Commander Allan Gibson of the Metropolitan Police Service Directorate of Professional Standards said: "I appreciate there was alleged provocation in this case, but police officers are expected to remain professional at all times; irrespective of provocation.

"PC Scarlett failed to remain professional; he reacted and has paid the price of being convicted at court.

"Now that the criminal proceedings are complete the misconduct process can continue."

Scarlett has been bailed to appear for sentencing at Highbury Magistrates Court on September 20. Tom Godfrey, representing PC Scarlett, said his client would be appealing against the verdict.

Highbury Magistrates Court would not provide the defendant's full address.

 

TODAY'S TOP CROYDON STORIES