Cop who ran over pensioner with police van under criminal investigation
A police officer is suspected of unlawfully killing a pedestrian by knocking him over with his van while on duty.
The Nottinghamshire Police constable, who has not been named, was driving the van when it hit 80-year-old Trevor Bartlett in Beeston on December 19.
Mr Bartlett, a retired local news photographer, was walking over a pedestrian crossing on a dual carriageway near his local pub just after 6.30pm when he was struck down.
He was treated by police officers and paramedics but died at the scene.
The van was said to have been carrying a suspect to custody and was travelling in a bus lane with its blue lights and sirens on at the time.
The police watchdog opened an investigation shortly after the incident following a referral by Nottinghamshire Police.
On Tuesday, the Independent Office for Police Conduct (IOPC) said the constable is now under criminal investigation for two possible offences: causing death by dangerous driving and causing death by careless or inconsiderate driving.
The officer is also under investigation for potential gross misconduct.
The decision follows a review of CCTV, dashcam and police bodycam footage as well as data from the van and accounts given by officers involved.
The IOPC’s West Midlands chief Derrick Campbell said: ‘We have been in contact with Mr Bartlett’s family to express our sympathy for their tragic loss, and to explain how our investigation will be conducted.
‘Following the conclusion of our investigation, we will decide whether to refer the matter to the Crown Prosecution Service for a charging decision and we will also determine whether disciplinary proceedings should follow.’
This is a developing news story, more to follow soon… Check back shortly for further updates.
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