A Surrey police officer who rammed a calf in the summer will return to front-line duty after an internal investigation concludes, police have announced.
An investigation into the incident found the tactic was “lawful and necessary to prevent harm to the public and property.”
The incident occurred around midnight on June 15, when a 10-month-old child was spotted in a patrol car driven by police officers who had responded to reports of an animal wandering in the market town of Staines upon Thames. A cow collided.
Footage of the incident quickly spread online, leading to widespread condemnation of the officer driving the car, with many saying the actions appeared excessive and cruel.
Surrey Police said the investigation, which included 250 video footage and 75 witness statements, found there was no reason to take any further action in either the criminal investigation or internal misconduct proceedings. Announced.
Deputy Constable Neff Kemp said: “We appreciate the strong feelings that remain regarding this incident, which is why we are working to determine whether any criminal offenses were committed in relation to the actions taken by our officers.'' “We have promised to conduct a diligent and thorough investigation.” Surrey Police at night.
“This includes collecting significant amounts of video evidence and speaking to witnesses and animal welfare experts to pass information on to senior investigators. [SIO]decision making. After a five-month investigation, the SIO found that while there was required institutional learning on how to handle free-ranging livestock, no criminal offenses had been committed…therefore, no further action should be taken against those involved. No action should be taken.
“This decision was supported by Surrey Police's Professional Standards Officer, who subsequently investigated whether there was any potential misconduct. They determined that learning of the individual was necessary, but no misconduct. “No further action will be taken in this regard. The driver of the vehicle will return to front-line duties in due course.”
