Calderdale Lower Valley blog

In August 2020, a police officer from Halifax police station was involved in an incident where a male adult was arrested. During the arrest and struggle with the detained person, the officer was heard to say “CHILL OUT OR I’LL CHOKE YOU OUT.” This incident was captured and reported to the public via the national media.

This created community tensions and resulted in a peaceful protest outside of Halifax Police station.

The case was reviewed by the CPS who did not feel, that the case against the officer, was criminal and that an internal misconduct hearing was the proportionate way to investigate the incident.

The misconduct hearing commenced on Monday 15th November 2021 and today has come to a conclusion. West Yorkshire Police have released the following press release.

“Detective Chief Inspector Shaf Rehman, of West Yorkshire Police’s Professional Standards Directorate, said: “We take any allegation about the use of excessive force extremely seriously. We made a voluntary referral to the IOPC in relation to this incident, who took it on as an independent investigation.

 “Unfortunately, our officers do find themselves in situations where the use of force is required for the prevention or detection of crime or to prevent an individual from causing harm to themselves or others.

 “It is vital however that any use of force is lawful, reasonable and proportionate; follows force policy and is in keeping with the training received. The finding of the hearing today has concluded that this was the case in relation to this officer.

 “We will now reflect upon the outcome of this hearing and any recommendations. We will seek to implement them in our organisational learning and development going forwards.”

Community Protection Team