Hampshire Police is facing criticism for the incident involving the handcuffing of Henry Nowak, an 18-year-old who was bleeding to death from knife wounds while the suspect, Vickrum Digwa, stood by. One officer has resigned in connection to the case, although no misconduct investigations are currently ongoing.
Nowak, a student from Southampton, was restrained by officers after Digwa falsely claimed to have been a victim of a racist attack during a stabbing incident in December. Video footage, released with the family’s permission, captured Nowak pleading for help while an officer dismissed his claims of being stabbed.
Despite suffering fatal wounds, including a stab to his heart, Nowak was handcuffed as officers failed to provide immediate medical assistance. The Independent Office for Police Conduct (IOPC) has not yet launched a misconduct investigation into the officers involved, but the case is under review.
Although one female officer has left the force following the incident, the remaining officers, including those seen in the bodycam footage, continue with their duties. If found guilty of gross misconduct, the officers could face dismissal.
The IOPC has confirmed that the officers are currently being treated as witnesses, pending further investigation. Director Derrick Campbell stated that a thorough review of the body-worn footage is underway to determine the full circumstances of the case.
Hampshire Police spokesperson verified the resignation of one officer involved in the Nowak case, stating that three officers are still serving and are considered witnesses in the ongoing investigation.