Wakefield police officer found guilty of on-duty assault at city centre mental health support hub Safe Space
A Wakefield police officer has been fined after being found guilty of an on-duty assault
PC Kenny Walton, aged 40, who is based in Wakefield District, was found guilty at Sheffield Magistrates Court today (Monday) after being charged with one count of common assault.
The charge relates to an incident on June 16, 2024 when PC Walton was working in the Safe Space Hub in Wakefield city centre, which provides support for those experiencing a mental health crisis.
He was accused of using excessive force after asking a man to leave the Hub.
After being found guilty he was ordered to pay costs totalling £1,150.
Detective Chief Superintendent Tanya Wilkins, Head of West Yorkshire Police’s Professional Standards Directorate, said: “Police officers will sometimes be required to use force during the course of their duties, but it is vital that its use is reasonable, necessary and proportionate.
“In this incident, the officer’s actions were not appropriate in the circumstances and his statement regarding what happened did not fully reflect the circumstances portrayed on Body Worn Video.
“A complaint in respect of the officer’s actions was made to West Yorkshire Police Professional Standards Directorate and an investigation commenced, which resulted in the officer being placed on restricted duties.
“Now that the court case has concluded, we will progress misconduct proceedings.”