Surrey Police Under Fire for Ramming Escaped Calf with Patrol Car
Surrey, June 19, 2024 — Surrey Police are in hot water after a shocking video showed officers using a patrol car to ram a 10-month-old calf on the loose in Staines-upon-Thames. The Independent Office for Police Conduct (IOPC) has stepped in, ordering an investigation into whether the police response was proportionate and professional.
Public Outrage and Official Backlash
The footage quickly went viral, sparking outrage across the country. The calf’s owner, only known as Rob, called the video “horrific.” Renowned wildlife presenter Chris Packham slammed the officers, demanding, “What sort of monster rams a calf?”
Home Secretary James Cleverly also weighed in, calling for a “full, urgent explanation” from Surrey Police and branding the use of force as “unnecessarily heavy-handed.”
Surrey Police Defend Their Actions
Surrey Police claim they tried several ways to control the cow, which was reported charging people and damaging property, before resorting to a police vehicle to stop it. Despite this, the IOPC confirmed receiving two complaints on June 17 about the incident and launched an investigation.
An IOPC spokesperson said:
“We are investigating whether the force used was appropriate and if officers upheld police standards of behaviour, including how they communicated with the public present during the incident.”
The watchdog decided the investigation will be handled internally by Surrey Police’s Professional Standards Department but will be overseen by a senior officer from Surrey and Sussex Police’s Major Crime Team. Complainants unhappy with the results can request an IOPC review.
Calf’s Condition and Next Steps
The injured calf, named Beau Lucy, returned to her farm bruised but recovering. Deputy Chief Constable Nev Kemp pledged transparency and a thorough inquiry:
“This will take time. We are committed to a diligent investigation and will keep the public updated.”
The incident has sparked urgent discussions about training and protocols to safely handle runaway animals while protecting public safety and police professionalism.
For the latest updates, keep an eye on local news and official statements from Surrey Police and the IOPC.
