Family Furious as Police Officer Cleared Over Fatal Crash
The family of Arthur Holscher-Ermert, who died after being hit by a police patrol car, have blasted the sudden dropping of charges against the officer involved. They describe the decision as a shocking blow, coming more than two years after the tragic death.
The Crash and Court Drama
PC Christopher Corker, 40, was set to face trial at London’s Old Bailey, accused of causing Arthur’s death by dangerous driving in Peacehaven. It was claimed he deliberately steered his police car on the wrong side of the road to stop Arthur from running away. The incident, captured on graphic video from a passing motorist and the police car itself, happened just after 11:10 pm on April 30, 2022.
But on Monday, two expert reports declared Corker’s manoeuvre wouldn’t have caused a collision if Arthur hadn’t also changed direction. Prosecutor Jonathan Sandiford KC dropped all charges, clearing PC Corker of causing death by dangerous and careless driving.
Judge Calls It a ‘Tragic Accident’
Judge Richard Marks KC expressed sympathy for Arthur’s family but called the crash a tragic accident. The atmosphere was tense as Corker left the court, with one person yelling, “You are still responsible for killing Arthur. Never forget his name. Dirty b*****d.”
Family’s Heartbreak and Fight for Answers
“Instead of facing trial, we had to absorb the shocking news that the CPS is dropping charges against PC Corker,” said Arthur’s family. “It’s devastating after over two years of waiting. We had hoped this trial would bring answers. We are shocked no one will be held criminally accountable. Our fight for truth continues as we now focus on Arthur’s inquest.”
Official Reactions and Next Steps
Prosecutor Sandiford explained the CPS dropped charges after expert evidence showed the collision likely resulted from Arthur’s unexpected change of direction. He said, “It appears Arthur ran in front of the police car, which had already reacted, causing the crash.”
Chief Constable Jo Shiner acknowledged the court’s verdict and expressed condolences to the family. “We await the Independent Office for Police Conduct’s update on any misconduct proceedings and urge a swift decision,” she added.
The Independent Office for Police Conduct confirmed the CPS decision and said it will reconsider misconduct hearings against two officers based on new evidence. They promised to keep Arthur’s family fully informed.
