An Independent Office for Police Conduct (IOPC) investigation has concluded that Derbyshire Constabulary officers acted appropriately in the fatal police shooting of Marius Ciolac, 35, in Derby on 7 October 2022.
The findings, released following the conclusion of an inquest into Mr. Ciolac’s death, determined that he was lawfully killed. A jury heard that Mr. Ciolac approached officers with a knife after attempting to break into Ascot Drive police station and attacking police vehicles outside.
Incident Timeline and Use of Force
The IOPC investigation established that Mr. Ciolac entered the police station compound at 9.53am, using a knife to smash glass panels in an unsuccessful attempt to gain entry.
Officers tried to apprehend him using non-lethal force, including:
- Taser deployment (twice) – ineffective due to his thick clothing
- A stun grenade – which created a series of loud bangs and smoke
- A baton round – fired by an officer as he continued advancing
Despite these measures, Mr. Ciolac ran towards a firearms officer with the knife pointed forward. At a distance of less than three metres, the officer discharged a single shot from his carbine, striking Mr. Ciolac in the abdomen.
Even after being shot, officers had to use further Taser deployments and distraction strikes to force him to drop the knife.
Emergency first aid was administered at the scene before paramedics arrived. Mr. Ciolac was transported to hospital but was pronounced dead at 11.25am.
IOPC Findings and Inquest Verdict
The IOPC cleared all officers involved, stating that their use of force was reasonable and proportionate, given the immediate threat to life.
IOPC Director Derrick Campbell said:
“Fatal police shootings are fortunately rare and lethal force must only be used by officers when absolutely necessary. When such incidents happen, it’s vital that the circumstances surrounding the shooting are thoroughly and independently examined.”
He added that the officer who fired the fatal shot feared for his life as Mr. Ciolac advanced towards him. This account was supported by extensive CCTV footage and body-worn camera evidence.
Following a detailed review of over 50 police witness statements, 18 statements from members of the public, and five from Derbyshire Fire and Rescue staff, the IOPC concluded that:
- The decision to use lethal force was justified
- No officers should face disciplinary action
- No criminal offences were committed
The IOPC report and findings were shared with Derbyshire Constabulary, Mr. Ciolac’s family, and the Coroner.
Inquest Conclusion
The jury at the inquest returned a verdict that Mr. Ciolac was lawfully killed, bringing the legal process to a close.
