Cop Sacked for Brutal Arrest Tactics
Police Constable Stephen Dalton has been found guilty of gross misconduct and lost his job following a shocking arrest back in 2019. The disciplinary hearing wrapped up on Tuesday 22 November, revealing a disturbing use of force during a bike shed break-in investigation.
Man Pushed, Struck Face Against Police Car
On 4 October 2019, PC Dalton arrested a man on Wilmington Close after reports of attempted bike shed break-ins. The officer pushed the suspect against a parked police car, smacking his face against the vehicle before slamming him to the ground. The man was treated in hospital but later released without charge.
Disciplinary Panel Slams Excessive Force
An independent panel blasted PC Dalton for breaching police conduct rules:
- Using unnecessary force by striking the man’s face against the car
- Showing poor professionalism by taunting the injured man with “It hurts doesn’t it?”
- Bringing discredit on the police service
IOPC Regional Director Graham Beesley condemned Dalton’s actions. “He did not show self-control or professionalism and let the situation spiral. The force used was completely unnecessary. His conduct fell far below the standards expected and risks damaging public trust in the police,” Beesley said.
Investigation and Court Trial Followed
The Independent Office for Police Conduct (IOPC) launched a four-month investigation after receiving a referral from the police force and a complaint from the arrested man. The probe included CCTV, bodycam footage, and witness statements.
The Crown Prosecution Service charged Dalton with assault occasioning actual bodily harm. However, on 5 November 2021, a jury at St Albans Crown Court acquitted him.
Despite the acquittal, Dalton’s disciplinary panel ruled against him. He will now be placed on the police barred list, banning him from working in policing ever again.
