Kevin Clarke death: Met officers to face miscount hearings

Kevin Clarke, 35, was restrained by officers on March 9, 2018, and died in hospital the same day.

A 12-month investigation was carried out by the Independent Office for Police Conduct into Kevin’s death.

In October 2020, an inquest determined that Kevin died as a result of acute behavioural disturbance, in a relapse of schizophrenia, leading to exhaustion and cardiac arrest.

The restraint that caused Kevin to struggle was cited by the inquest jury as one of several contributing factors to his death. 

In August 2021, the IOPC started to reinvestigate the actions of the officers following issues raised during the inquest. 

It was determined in May 2023 that two police constables should face gross misconduct hearings for alleged breaches of the police standards of professional behaviour.

This is relating to duties and responsibilities for failing to provide an appropriate level of care to Kevin, and for honesty and integrity.

It was determined that a police sergeant should be subject to gross incompetence proceedings for failing to adequately supervise the situation. 

IOPC director Steve Noonan said: “Our thoughts remain with the family and friends of Kevin Clarke and all those affected by this incident.

“We have determined that two officers have cases to answer for gross misconduct.

“We also determined that a third officer should attend gross incompetence proceedings. 

“It is now for the MPS to organise proceedings for the three officers.”

It was found a fourth officer, a police constable, should be subject to the reflective practice review process.

This is regarding their actions while Kevin was being walked to an ambulance.

It was decided by the IOPC not to send a file of evidence for the Crown Prosecution Service to consider any criminal charges.

All parties have been informed of its decision.