Watchdog to inspect police over Henry Nowak murder

The independent watchdog is to inspect Hampshire police following the murder of Henry Nowak, who was handcuffed and arrested as he lay dying.

Hampshire and Isle of Wight Police and Crime Commissioner (PCC) Donna Jones asked His Majesty's Inspectorate of Constabulary and Fire and Rescue Services (HMICFRS) to conduct an urgent inspection.

Jones said she had "grave concerns" that officers arrived at the scene of the 18-year-old student's stabbing "without adequate information".

HMICFRS confirmed it has "agreed in principle" to her request and is currently establishing the scope of the inspection.

Hampshire police apologised to Henry Nowak's family for the way he was handcuffed and arrested.

Nowak, from Chafford Hundred in Essex, was stabbed by Vickrum Digwa, who repeatedly lied to police, insisting he had been the victim of a racist attack.

Police bodycam footage released after Digwa, 23, was jailed for life on 1 June, showed Nowak telling officers multiple times that "I've been stabbed" and "I can't breathe".

Jones said: "Those words should have triggered an immediate and urgent medical response.

"Understanding why and ensuring it never happens again is a matter of the most serious national importance."

Jones requested the inspectorate examine the culture and performance of the Hampshire force control room and the training provided to frontline officers, including their duty to provide medical assistance.

A PCC can commission HMICFRS to urgently inspect their local force although it is the inspectorate that decides whether to proceed.

A spokesperson said: "Our thoughts remain with Henry Nowak's family and loved ones.

"We have agreed in principle to the PCC's request to carry out an inspection and are currently working on the terms of the reference."

Jones said the inspection "will not interfere" with an ongoing investigation into the circumstances of the police response by the Independent Office for Police Conduct.