Two Met cops face gross misconduct hearing over 2018 Lewisham death
After a thorough probe by the Independent Office for Police Conduct (IOPC), two Metropolitan Police officers are set for a gross misconduct hearing linked to the death of Kevin Clarke in Lewisham in 2018. The IOPC uncovered serious concerns over inaccurate evidence and failings in their duty of care on the day Clarke died.
Officers accused of dishonesty and neglect
The Met have backed the IOPC’s findings and are scheduling the hearing urgently. The accused officers, from Central West and Southeast command units, face allegations of breaching professional standards relating to Duties, Responsibilities, Honesty, and Integrity. Both have been put on restricted duties while investigations continue.
Third officer to face gross incompetence hearing
No criminal charges will be brought against the two officers, the IOPC confirmed. However, a third officer from the Southeast Basic Command Unit will face a separate gross incompetence hearing over supervision failures on the day of Clarke’s death. Additionally, another officer from Met Operations will undergo a Reflective Practice Review.
Family updated as police vow transparency
The investigation cleared five other officers of any wrongdoing. All nine involved were attached to the Southeast Basic Command Unit during the incident.
The IOPC has informed Mr Clarke’s family of the latest developments. Detective Chief Superintendent Trevor Lawry, south-east London’s local policing chief, extended condolences to the family and the community. He reiterated the Met’s prior apology and acknowledged their failings following the inquest.
Lawry vowed swift resolution, recognising the profound impact on the family and community. He stressed the need for rigorous scrutiny of police conduct without prejudging outcomes. The Met also confirmed ongoing reviews of policies around restraint and mental health crisis interventions, aiming to align with national standards.
