The disciplinary hearing concluded that PCs Justin Hulf and Mara Sow were not guilty of gross misconduct in the case of Mikias Tekeste, who died after swallowing drugs while in police custody. The Independent Office for Police Conduct (IOPC) initially assessed the officers had a case to answer. It was found that the officers' search was proper, though supervision in the police van was deemed inadequate. Ultimately, the officers acted appropriately according to available information, while Tekeste was held responsible for his own actions.
The disciplinary panel ultimately found the officers had acted properly. Mr Tekeste had concealed his actions and the officers' risk assessment and level of observation were appropriate based on the information they had.
Both officers from the Met's South Area Command Unit faced allegations regarding their conduct during the arrest and monitoring of Mikias Tekeste but were ultimately exonerated.
The investigation determined that the officers' search of Mikias Tekeste during arrest was appropriate, although it criticized the supervision level while he was in the police van.
Detective Chief Superintendent Nick Blackburn emphasized the officers’ duty of care while asserting that Mr Tekeste was responsible for knowingly swallowing drugs before collapsing.
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