Northern Ireland

Moy 'punch' police officer probed over two other assault allegations

Footage appears to show a PSNI member grabbing a man by the throat
Footage appears to show a PSNI member grabbing a man by the throat Footage appears to show a PSNI member grabbing a man by the throat

The PSNI officer who was filmed appearing to punch a man in the face during an altercation in Co Tyrone has also been investigated by the Police Ombudsman in relation to two other assault allegations.

The conduct of the officer is currently subject of four complaints relating to three incidents in the Mid Ulster area.

Files have been sent to the Public Prosecution Service in relation to two complaints.

A spokesman for the Police Ombudsman last night confirmed that the PPS had directed no prosecution in relation to one complaint.

He added that an ombudsman "investigation into potential misconduct is ongoing in this complaint".

The PPS has not issued any direction in relation to the second complaint.

The ombudsman's office is also investigating two complaints, which are understood to relate to an incident in Moy, Co Tyrone, last year.

At the time the Irish News reported that a film of the incident appeared to show a PSNI officer restraining a man by the throat on the ground before throwing a left-handed punch which strikes him in the face.

It has also been claimed that pepper spray was used during the incident.

Both the person pictured in the video and another man who was at the scene later lodged a joint complaint with the ombudsman.

The spokesman for the Police Ombudsman said: "The two complaints received in relation to the third incident are currently under investigation to determine if there is evidence of potential criminality.

"As these are ongoing investigations, the Ombudsman cannot comment further at this time.”

Two men, aged 28 and 34, were later charged with assault on police and disorderly behaviour.

Solicitor Owen Beattie, of KRW Law, said: "Our clients welcome the ongoing investigation by the ombudsman."