A former Greater Manchester Police (GMP) Police Sergeant (PS) and a serving Custody Detention Officer (CDO) have received community orders after being found guilty of assaulting a prisoner in an internal investigation.
Former PS Ian Dunn was convicted of assault at Liverpool Magistrates’ Court on July 10, 2023, while CDO Warren Clarke, had previously pleaded guilty to the same offence.
During their sentencing on Tuesday, Dunn was given a 12-week curfew order, while CDO Clarke received an eight-week curfew. Both individuals were also ordered to pay costs and a victim surcharge at Liverpool Magistrates’ Court on July 11, 2023.
The charges stem from an incident at Pendleton Police Station in June 2022 when CDO Clarke threw a bucket of water over a male prisoner. Dunn has retired from the force, while CDO Clarke is currently suspended from duty. Both individuals will now face internal disciplinary proceedings.
Chief Inspector Carl Gilbert, of GMP’s Professional Standards Branch, expressed that although the victim did not lodge a complaint, such behaviour will not be tolerated. A comprehensive investigation was conducted, leading to the criminal convictions. Gilbert added that disciplinary proceedings would commence now that the judicial process has concluded.
Assistant Chief Constable Colin McFarlane, GMP Force Lead for Custody, highlighted that everyone who comes into contact with GMP deserves to be treated with respect and compassion. In response to the incident, the Custody Branch has appointed an entirely new command team and is implementing broader reforms to ensure the highest standards are maintained.
