WIREDGOV

The Independent Police Complaints Commission (IPCC) is seeking witnesses who may be able to assist in its investigation into the approach adopted by Metropolitan Police Service (MPS) officers towards stop and searches of Henry Hicks in the three years before his death.

The IPCC launched an independent investigation following a complaint from Mr Hicks’ family concerning the MPS’ dealings with Henry, and the family, between October 2011 and December 2014.

The investigation is specifically examining the MPS Islington borough command’s approach to stop and searches of Mr Hicks during this time period. It is looking at the appropriateness and extent of those searches and whether they were conducted in line with local and national policies.

IPCC investigators are also examining allegations, made by Mr Hicks’ family, that between October 2011 and December 2014 MPS officers behaved in an unprofessional way in their dealings with Mr Hicks and during a search of his family home.

IPCC Commissioner Jennifer Izekor said:

“It is incredibly important that Henry’s friends and the local Islington community help us build up a picture of police interaction with Mr Hicks before his death.

“If you were with Henry on any of the occasions between October 2011 and December 2014 when he was subjected to a stop and search you may be able to provide invaluable information and our independent investigators need to hear from you.

“With the help of his friends and associates, and those within the local Islington community we will truly be able to build up a picture of police interaction with Henry before his death, aged 18.

“The IPCC has a dedicated witness appeal freephone telephone number and I urge anyone who may have any information concerning Henry’s contact with the police to come forward and help us. We need callers to leave their contact details so our independent investigators can speak to you about the information you are willing to provide.”

If you were with Mr Hicks, or witnessed any police interactions with him between October 2011 and December 2014 contact the IPCC Enquiry Line on 0800 015 4875.

Notes to editors:

Investigators have concluded their lines of enquiry into the fatal collision and are in the process of compiling a final report.