Shocking Video Shows Man Struggling to Breathe During Arrest in Brighton
West Sussex Police chiefs are launching a review after a disturbing video emerged showing a man gasping for air while being pinned to the ground by officers. The man, arrested on Montpelier Road, Brighton, can be heard pleading that he cannot breathe. Suspects’ claims have sparked public outrage and calls for accountability.
Sussex Police Defend Officers, Promise Full Review
A Sussex Police spokesperson confirmed the man was arrested on suspicion of criminal damage and assaulting officers. “Officers are trained to use reasonable force,” they said.
The force insists the man became aggressive during the arrest. They added there is no current suggestion of excessive or unconventional force. Yet, all footage—including bodycam videos from the three officers involved—will be carefully examined.
Eyewitness Horrified by Lengthy Restraint
An anonymous witness who recorded the chilling clip said:
“I was utterly shocked. I’d never seen anything like this before. I regret not filming the initial arrest. They held him on the ground for a long time.
“Why didn’t they just handcuff him straight away? The man wasn’t resisting and was clearly distressed and in pain.
“Regardless of the suspected crime, this use of force was unlike anything I had seen before. It made me feel sick and left me unbelievably shocked.”
Will the Police Watchdog Step In?
West Sussex Police have yet to confirm if the man has lodged an official complaint or whether the Independent Office for Police Conduct (IOPC) will be called in to investigate. The public and campaigners will be watching closely as the review unfolds.
