AN internet video which hit the headlines nationally this month shows a policeman in Coventry telling a black man, “You would be the first one I’d shoot if I had a gun” and “You’re going to go Black Lives Matter on us, are ya?”
The public reaction emphasises this cannot be dismissed as banter, or with West Midlands Police’s claim the officer is apologetic.
The outcome of internal and other investigations will be important for community cohesion and public faith locally, regionally and nationally, in troubling times.
We reveal today the Independent Police Complaints Commission – brought in for serious matters – had initially declined to investigate, and the officer still works for the force.
It is concerning. The sooner it is dealt with properly, the better.
Les Reid
