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Police Assault Victim Wins Over £100,000 Damages

A man who suffered a shattered right leg when he was manhandled by a policeman who suspected him of possessing drugs has been awarded more than £100,000 in damages after the High Court found that the officer had used excessive force.

The man and a friend had been to an all-night party before going to a convenience store to stock up on supplies. Both were very tired and disorientated, having been drinking for hours. Two police officers noticed the men's suspicious behaviour and intervened, as a result of which the men were each restrained before being handcuffed and arrested.

In upholding a compensation claim brought by one of the men, the Court found that he had not resisted arrest before an officer 'tackled' him inside the shop and forcibly held him in such a way that his right lower leg was broken. Although the assault was not deliberate, an unnecessary and unreasonable level of force had been used.

The injury to the man's leg had serious long-term consequences. The limb became infected and he had subsequently also broken his right thigh, arm and elbow when he suffered a fall whilst recovering in plaster. After weeks in hospital and lengthy rehabilitation, he was left with a 'deformed' right leg and a 'permanent limp'. The Court awarded him total damages of £108,491 against the Metropolitan Police.

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If you suffer an injury because the police have acted in an unreasonable manner, you may be entitled to compensation. We can advise you on how to go about making a personal injury claim.
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