‘Brawl’ footage reviewed by cops
Reporter POLICE chiefs are reviewing footage appearing to show officers in a violent altercation with members of the public.
Officers were responding to reports of a fight on Gallowgate, in Newcastle city centre, shortly before 6pm on August 22, during which they restrained a number of people.
One person involved in the fight was carrying a knuckle duster and the force says it is also investigating the alleged use of racist language by members of the group.
Now, mobile phone footage has emerged appearing to show officers lashing out while making the arrests.
In the footage, an officer can be seen approaching a woman at speed before appearing to push her to the ground.
And, a few seconds later, another officer appears to punch one member of the group repeatedly while keeping him pinned to the pavement.
Northumbria Police confirmed it is assessing the footage to decide if “there are any matters which require further attention”.
Four people were arrested in relation to the fight.
A spokesperson for Northumbria Police said: “Officers attended a large group of people involved in a physical confrontation on Gallowgate at 5.39pm on Wednesday, August 22.
“Members of the group also became hostile towards responding officers.
“One member of the group was in possession of a knuckle duster, which has since been confiscated.
“As a result of the incident four people were arrested on suspicion of affray. Three of those were cautioned and one received no further action.
“No injuries were reported during the incident.
“We can confirm we are currently reviewing mobile phone footage taken of the scene to see if there are any matters which require further attention.
“It would be inappropriate to comment on the use of force used by any officer until the full context of this incident has been considered.”