The Independent Office for Police Conduct (IOPC) has announced that a Sussex Police officer will face court proceedings in connection to the death of Arthur Hölscher-Ermert, 27, in Peacehaven on April 30, 2022. Mr. Hölscher-Ermert tragically lost his life after being hit by a Sussex Police vehicle.
The accused officer, whose identity is withheld for legal reasons, is charged with causing death by dangerous driving. The officer is scheduled to appear at Westminster Magistrates’ Court on January 9, 2024.
This announcement follows the IOPC’s comprehensive investigation, initiated on May 1, 2022, after receiving a mandatory referral from Sussex Police. The investigation concluded in April 2023, culminating in a report submitted to the Crown Prosecution Service (CPS), which has now authorized the charge.
Additionally, the CPS has decided not to prosecute a second officer, previously under criminal investigation for potentially perverting the course of justice.
The IOPC expressed its condolences to Mr. Hölscher-Ermert’s family and all those impacted by this distressing event. Emphasising the importance of the integrity of the criminal proceedings, the IOPC has urged the public and media to refrain from reporting or discussing details that could potentially prejudice the upcoming legal process.
