Northamptonshire Police reviewing CCTV of 'brutal' arrest

On August 8, a 22-year-old student named Samuel was involved in an incident on Barrack Road in Northampton after he stopped to give change to a homeless person. Shortly after, he was approached by a police officer, who he initially did not recognize. Samuel ran but stopped upon realizing the officer's identity, only to be subjected to what he described as excessive force, being hit multiple times while on the ground. This encounter was recorded by a friend, capturing the alleged brutality. Northamptonshire Police stated that Samuel was questioned regarding drug supply offenses, which led to a brief pursuit before he was apprehended. However, after a search yielded no evidence, he was released without charge. The police acknowledged the existence of CCTV footage and are currently reviewing the incident, including body-worn camera footage from the officers involved. Samuel has since filed a formal complaint against the police and is seeking disciplinary action against the officer involved. He has engaged a solicitor, Miriam Altaf, to assist in pursuing justice. Samuel expressed disbelief at the treatment he received and questioned whether his ethnic background influenced the severity of the police response. The police force is in communication with Samuel to address his concerns, and the incident is under internal review. The case has raised questions about police conduct and the treatment of individuals during stop-and-search operations, particularly in relation to ethnic minorities.