Cop Suspended After Fiery Islington Arrest Caught on Camera
Two Met officers are under the microscope after a man was arrested amid a fight in Islington. One cop has been suspended, another slapped with a removal from operational duty following the shocking incident captured on video.
Fight Breaks Out in Islington
At around 6.30pm on Thursday, 16 July, police rushed to Isledon Road, N7, following reports of a street brawl. A man matching a suspect’s description was quickly detained and arrested on suspicion of affray and possession of an offensive weapon.
The 45-year-old, identified as Marcus Coutain from Islington, remains in custody at a central London police station.
Controversial Arrest Sparks Outrage
A video circulating on social media shows two officers pinning the man to the ground. Deputy Commissioner Sir Steve House called the footage “extremely disturbing,” noting some of the restraint methods used aren’t part of police training.
“The video footage that I have seen today and is circulating on social media is extremely disturbing. I understand that many viewing the footage will share my concern.” – Sir Steve House
He confirmed one officer is suspended, while another has been removed from active duty but not suspended. The force insists all use of force must be lawful, proportionate, and necessary. They have referred the case to the Independent Office for Police Conduct (IOPC) for a full probe.
Suspect Charged and Under Investigation
- Marcus Coutain charged with possession of a knife in public on Friday, 17 July
- Scheduled to appear at Highbury Corner Magistrates’ Court on 18 July
- Found to be wanted on recall to prison for grievous bodily harm
- Declared fit to be detained and interviewed after medical exam
The IOPC has confirmed it will conduct an independent investigation into the officers’ conduct. Police vow full cooperation as the controversy unfolds.
