No action to be taken over teen's protest arrest

The police watchdog will not investigate the events surrounding the arrest of a teenager at a protest in Sheffield, after ruling it did not meet the mandatory referral criteria.

The 17-year-old boy was arrested on suspicion of assault following an alleged attack on an officer in the city centre on Saturday.

An initial report suggested he had lost consciousness and, in line with procedure, South Yorkshire Police referred itself to the Independent Office for Police Conduct (IOPC).

However, following a review of footage, the IOPC said there was no evidence the teenager had lost consciousness and the referral was returned to the force.

The boy was among six males who were arrested at planned protests after the group Raise the Colours, which aims to "cover Britain in flags", gathered at the Peace Gardens while counter-protesters met at Tudor Square.

Four men - aged 26, 32, 36, and one of an unknown age - were arrested on suspicion of public order offences, and a 65-year-old man was arrested on suspicion of assault.

The teenager was de-arrested to receive medical treatment at hospital for his injuries and he later discharged himself.

Video footage of the arrest was later circulated widely on social media.

A spokesperson for South Yorkshire Police said an internal review had also been carried out by the professional standards department and no further action would be taken.

"We understand there may be times when the force used by our officers may appear concerning, particularly when viewed out of context," they said.

"While officers, including in this case, will always look to utilise other operational means where they can, use of reasonable force remains an important tactic for them when carrying out their role of law enforcement."

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