Investigation Launched into Police Misconduct After Teen’s Death

Two British police officers are under investigation for misconduct following the death of 18-year-old Henry Nowak, who was found on the ground handcuffed with a stab wound to his chest shortly after being arrested.

Last December, Nowak was tragically murdered in Southampton by 23-year-old Vikram Dighwa, who used a traditional Sikh knife. Dighwa had falsely claimed to the police that he had been racially abused by Nowak.

When police arrived, Nowak reportedly told them, “I can’t breathe, I’ve been stabbed,” but one officer, in a recorded exchange, dismissed his plea saying, “I don’t think so, dude.” After that, Nowak was handcuffed and became unconscious on the ground.

Additional body camera footage later revealed that the officers did not handcuff Dighwa and appeared to accept his false allegations of racism without question.

It was documented that the officers were unaware Nowak had been stabbed for nearly eight minutes after arriving at the scene.

This Wednesday, the Independent Office for Police Conduct (IOPC) announced it will investigate the two officers who allegedly neglected to provide medical assistance, opting instead to arrest Nowak, as reported by the BBC.

The IOPC also indicated that one officer might have breached standards of authority and civility after apparently dismissing Nowak’s claims of being stabbed.

The investigation follows a complaint from Nowak’s family, who expressed that their son was treated “inhumanely” while his assailant received what they considered “decency.”

In response to the incident, Hampshire and Isle of Wight Police had previously apologized for the officers’ conduct. This incident led to protests in Southampton, with many arguing that it showcased a two-tier justice system in the UK.

Reform UK leader Nigel Farage suggested that a culture of anti-white racism and diversity initiatives contributed to Nowak’s death.

The IOPC will also investigate if race or religion played a role in the police’s response to the situation. Derrick Campbell, head of engagement at the IOPC, stated that after the conclusion of criminal proceedings, investigators met with Henry’s family earlier this month to discuss the case further.

“Two police officers will now be investigated for serious misconduct. There is clear evidence that public confidence in the force may have been seriously undermined by this incident,” Campbell noted.

He added that receiving a notice of gross misconduct doesn’t automatically mean disciplinary action will follow. The decision will be made at the conclusion of the investigation.