West Yorkshire Police officer guilty of assault during arrest in Leeds
PC David Watson-Walker has been isued with a fine after being convicted of common assault
A West Yorkshire Police has been handed a fine after he assaulted a moped rider in Leeds around two years ago.
PC David Watson-Walker, 42, has been found guilty of common assault following the incident on December 17 2024 and has been handed a £440 fine at Sheffield and Barnsley Magistrates’ Court.
The conviction follows an investigation by the Independent Office for Police Conduct into what happened.
PC Watson-Walker was responding to reports of dangerous driving related to a moped, which was then brought to the stop.
While the rider of the moped wasn't putting up a struggle Watson-Walker struck him multiple times and used offensive language.
The rider was taken from custody to hospital, suffering facial bruising and a swollen ankle.
Detective Chief Superintendent Tanya Wilkins, Head of West Yorkshire Police’s Professional Standards Directorate, said: "There are situations where police officers may be required to use force and that is recognised in law."
"It is vital though that any use of force is done in line with training and is reasonable, necessary, and proportionate – which was not the case in this incident."
During the investigation PC Watson-Walker was placed on restricted duties.
He will now face a misconduct hearing.