Police cleared after using CS spray

29th July 2010, 17:30

Three Essex Police officers who sprayed a man with CS gas in Brentwood last September have returned to full duty.

Staff at a pub in the High Street asked for police assistance in ejecting a man who was allegedly being aggressive and police used restraints and CS spray to detain the man.

The incident was referred to the Independent Police Complaints Commission who says they acted within the rules, while the Crown Prosecution Service reviewed the evidence and concluded that there were no criminal offences.

Deputy Chief Constable Andy Bliss said: "We took immediate action when this incident was brought to our attention and voluntarily referred it to the IPCC who undertook an independent investigation."

"I have concluded, in conjunction with the IPCC, that there are no misconduct issues. We have, however, thoroughly reviewed the incident and the officers involved have been fully debriefed by the Chief Superintendent in charge of our Professional Standards Department ."

"He has made clear our expectations of officers who have to deal with individuals who may be violent or threatening. The officers have also been required to attend defensive skills refresher training where clear guidance is given about the use of force."

"I hope that these actions will reassure the public that we take such incidents extremely seriously and underline the importance that we attach to the public having confidence that Essex Police will only use the level of force that is reasonable in the circumstances."