Watchdog: Police used excessive force against youths

Two police officers have been found to have used excessive force when moving youths off of a road, after one was thrown several metres and another was dragged by their hood, a watchdog has found.

In a review by the Independent Police Conduct Authority into a car chase in September 2022, in Auckland, the watchdog found that two officers were unjustified in their actions. The police had been following a stolen car occupied by three young people, when the car stopped after being spiked on Great South Rd, Papakura.

Two of the youths left the car and lay down on the roadside. According to police, the officers feared the young people would be hit by the stolen car, as the remaining occupant could be seen moving from the back, into the driver’s seat. The first officer lay on one youth, before hauling him to his feet and throwing him several metres. This young person was aged 12 at the time, according to the report. The second officer dragged the other youth by the hood of his sweater for a couple of metres.

The IPCA review found the first officer was justified in moving the young person, but unjustified in the excessive force used.

The use of force by the second officer was unnecessary, as there was no risk to the youth, the review found.

The second officer has faced employment action, but police said they considered the first officer’s actions and use of force appropriate. Counties Manukau District Commander Superintendent Shanan Gray said both officers involved remained employed by NZ Police.