Metropolitan Police Faces Accountability
The Metropolitan Police has issued a formal apology and agreed to a significant six-figure settlement for Alfie Meadows, a philosophy student at Middlesex University. Alfie suffered a severe brain injury when a police officer struck him with a baton during the 2010 university tuition fees protests. This incident left him with over 100 staples in his head and a noticeable scar.
Despite his peaceful conduct, Alfie was arrested and prosecuted three times for violent disorder, but he was eventually acquitted in 2013.
Legal Proceedings
In 2013, Alfie initiated legal proceedings against the Metropolitan Police, seeking damages. The case concluded recently, securing Alfie a six-figure settlement.
Metropolitan Police's Apology
Inspector Andy O'Donnell from the Met's directorate of professional standards extended a formal apology to Alfie Meadows, acknowledging that Alfie had been peacefully protesting and that the baton strike he endured was both dangerous and unjustified. However, the identity of the officer responsible for the strike remained undisclosed.
The Impact on Alfie
Alfie's lawyer, Daniel Lemberger Cooper, emphasized the lasting consequences of the baton strike on his client's life, including emergency brain surgery, ongoing trauma, and its detrimental effects on his studies and mental health. The lengthy legal process further exacerbated the situation.
Alfie Meadows' Response
Alfie Meadows expressed concerns about institutional issues within the police force, calling for fundamental changes to prevent further injustices.
Additional Details
During the misconduct hearing against DC Mark Alston in 2019, Alfie described the excruciating pain he endured due to the baton strike and its immediate impact on him.
Metropolitan Police's Statement
A spokesperson for the Metropolitan Police confirmed their apology and settlement in June 2023, acknowledging that Alfie Meadows had been a peaceful protester and the use of force against him had been unjustified. Despite various investigations and proceedings over the years, the identity of the responsible officer remained unknown.
