Detective Cleared After Baton Incident with Teen
Detective Faces Assault Charge
Detective Constable Kevin Rowley, from the East Area Command Unit, was charged with common assault after an incident involving a 17-year-old in Romford. The charge came following an arrest on 22 April 2019 for suspected possession of class B drugs.
Trial Ends in Acquittal
After a trial at Hendon Magistrates’ Court on 23 January, DC Rowley was found not guilty. The Independent Office for Police Conduct (IOPC) led the probe after footage of the arrest sparked outrage on social media, showing DC Rowley using his baton during the incident.
Police Statement and Next Steps
“Footage of this incident was circulated on social media and caused concern due to the force used against the male arrested,” said Commander Catherine Roper from the Met’s Directorate of Professional Standards. “We made a referral to the IOPC to allow an independent investigation to take place into all the circumstances as it is only right to maintain confidence in how we police.”
She added, “A court has decided today that DC Rowley’s actions were lawful. We have received the IOPC’s report and are liaising with them about any misconduct proceedings.”
DC Rowley remains on restricted duties while the Met reviews the case further.
