Detention Officer Convicted for Punching Handcuffed Suspect in Custody
Officer Strikes Man Seconds After Arrest
Sayeef Hasnain, a detention officer with the Central East Command Unit, was convicted after assaulting a handcuffed suspect in custody. The incident occurred on 28 June 2020 in Leyton when Hasnain was on duty.
The suspect, arrested for grievous bodily harm with intent, refused to comply with fingerprinting. Despite being accompanied by three officers and handcuffed, he kept his fists clenched. CCTV showed Hasnain strike the man in the face within 17 seconds of entering the fingerprint room.
Colleagues Condemn Excessive Use of Force
Other officers on the scene quickly raised concerns, describing Hasnain’s response as disproportionate. Hasnain denied assault, claiming he acted in defence of fellow officers and within the legal boundaries of his duty. However, he refused to answer further questions.
Justice Served: Community Order and Costs
On 12 January at City of London Magistrates’ Court, Hasnain was handed a 12-month community order requiring 150 hours of unpaid work. He was also ordered to pay £930 in court costs and an £85 victim surcharge.
Met Police Crack Down on Unprofessional Conduct
Detective Chief Superintendent Pete Gardner warned: “Officers may use reasonable force during fingerprinting, but Hasnain’s actions far exceeded that. The public expects high standards from police, and when those fail, officers face criminal prosecution.”
Misconduct proceedings will follow the conclusion of criminal matters, ensuring Hasnain’s conduct is fully scrutinised.
