Met Police Cleared Over Sarah Everard Vigil Drama
The Metropolitan Police acted properly at the Clapham Common vigil for Sarah Everard, a detailed review has confirmed. Officers handled a tense day with calm professionalism, the report states.
Police Tried to Keep Peace Despite COVID Rules
- Police aimed to peacefully disperse the crowd.
- Officers remained calm despite being verbally abused.
- There was no heavy-handed or inappropriate behaviour by police.
The vigil, held on 13 March despite police warnings about COVID lockdown breaches, saw hundreds gather to mourn the tragic death of the marketing executive. Sarah Everard’s body was found a week after she vanished in London.
Organisers from ‘Reclaim These Streets’ intended a respectful event. Even after the official vigil was cancelled, mourners turned out in force to pay tribute and support Sarah’s family.
Tensions Escalated as Crowd Grew Around Bandstand
Initially, the Met took a stand-off approach, letting people lay flowers and pay respects. But by 6pm, some began making speeches on the bandstand, drawing a bigger crowd packed closely together.
Officers struggled to maintain safety as social distancing broke down. Efforts to engage with speakers lasted several hours. The situation sparked unrest. One female officer was punched and called a “disgrace to females” and a “murderer.” Police vehicles were also damaged.
The group ‘Sisters Uncut’ was present, tweeting ahead: “Meet at 6pm at the bandstand on Clapham Common. Bring flowers, candles, artwork, your sadness, banners, tissues, an umbrella, a face mask, and of course, all your rage.”
Independent Review Backs Police Actions
Assistant Commissioner Helen Ball said: “For over six hours, hundreds came to pay respects safely. When crowds grew and breached COVID rules, officers faced a tough call to act for public safety. We repeatedly asked people to leave, but a small minority became aggressive.”
Four arrests were made; reports say 26 officers were hurt. Footage showed officers grappling with the dense crowd after 6pm.
Sir Thomas Winsor, Chief Inspector of Constabulary, said: “Public confidence is crucial. Our independent inspection found the Met acted lawfully, sensitively and proportionately under tough conditions. Officers deserve public support when doing their job right.”
Inspector Matt Parr, who led the enquiry, added: “Criticism of the Met within hours of the vigil was unfair and damaging. After reviewing extensive evidence, we found officers acted measuredly. The minute’s silence was peaceful, but the event turned into a crowded rally. The Met was justified in enforcing COVID rules and persuading dispersal.”
The report puts to rest claims of police brutality at the Sarah Everard vigil, recognising the difficult balance between public safety and peaceful protest during a pandemic.
