Ex-police marksman hits out at 'flawed' IOPC over Martyn Blake trial: 'It's what we're trained to do!'

In the UK, a trial cleared Sergeant Martyn Blake of murdering 24-year-old Chris Kaba, an event that has sparked significant public and media attention. Following the verdict, the Independent Office for Police Conduct (IOPC) offered condolences to Kaba's family while facing backlash regarding its procedural integrity. Former police marksman Tony Long denounced the IOPC's approach, branding it 'flawed' and questioning the trajectory of inquiries related to police conduct in force-related incidents. Long, who experienced a similar trial that affected a decade of his life, highlighted the scrutiny officers endure when employing any level of force, reflecting the reality of police work. He asserted that officers are trained to respond to extreme situations, and the automatic association with criminal prosecution creates a daunting environment for law enforcement professionals. Long emphasized that officers may hesitate to act due to potential repercussions on their families. The case further fueled discussions around police accountability and reform, igniting protests and calls for inquiries into the legal processes for officers involved in use-of-force incidents. There is growing concern about the role of the CPS and the IOPC and their impacts on police morale and operational decision-making. Despite the verdict and acknowledgment of the challenges faced by officers, the ongoing tensions between public sentiment and law enforcement strategies remain critical, as both sides grapple with the consequences of policing in contemporary society.