Hampshire Police Chief Apologizes to Henry Nowak’s Family Over Arrest Incident

The chief constable of Hampshire police has issued a heartfelt apology to the family of Henry Nowak after shocking bodycam footage revealed the 18-year-old being handcuffed and arrested while he lay dying on the ground. Chief Constable Alexis Boon expressed his distress during an interview with the BBC, where he acknowledged the deeply troubling nature of the footage, which captured Henry repeatedly informing officers that he had been stabbed and was unable to breathe. The incident unfolded following a tragic event where Henry was attacked, and the police responded in a manner that has since sparked outrage.

In that footage, we see police arresting the teenager despite him pleading for help, even as his murderer, Vickrum Digwa, falsely claimed that Henry had racially abused him. When asked about his thoughts on the family’s suffering, Boon simply stated, “I’m so sorry you’ve had to go through this,” emphasizing that the police force is taking the matter seriously and reiterated an apology for the way Henry was treated. Digwa, now 23 years old, was sentenced to life in prison on Monday, with a minimum term of 21 years for the murder that occurred in December. However, Boon made it clear that he wouldn’t step down from his position over this incident, stating that he would let the ongoing investigation by the Independent Office of Police Conduct (IOPC) take its course.

The emotional weight of this situation is palpable. Boon described the footage as an “absolute tragedy,” admitting that it was “very difficult to watch.” He conveyed his deep sympathy for Henry’s family, who now face a lifetime of grief. Mark Nowak, Henry’s father, expressed the unbearable nature of watching how his son was treated by the police in contrast to his killer, adding that the family does not wish for Henry’s death to be a catalyst for further division or hatred in society.

Meanwhile, the tragic circumstances surrounding Henry’s death have drawn strong political reactions. Sir Keir Starmer accused Nigel Farage of exploiting the tragedy to stir up grievance and division after Farage suggested the public should respond with “pure cold rage” and criticized the police for their handling of the situation. Boon responded to these claims, stating he does not recognize the idea of “two-tier policing,” affirming that officers work diligently across all communities every day.

In a bid for calm, Hampshire Police and Crime Commissioner Donna Jones reached out to the Nowak family and shared that they are calling for a peaceful response. Additionally, the National Police Chiefs Council (NPCC) is reviewing existing anti-racism commitments to determine if changes are necessary in light of this incident.

The haunting details of Henry’s final moments are captured not only on the bodycam but also through CCTV footage and a 999 call made by Digwa’s brother. Reports indicate that Henry was on his way home after a night out with his football teammates when he was attacked on December 3. After being stabbed four times, he lay on the floor and repeatedly told the police he had been stabbed, yet one officer dismissively replied, “I don’t think you have mate.” Tragically, he was handcuffed and gasped, “I can’t breathe,” before succumbing to his injuries right there on the scene.

The aftermath has seen protests erupt, with demonstrators clashing with police near the location of Henry’s murder. Residents of Southampton have voiced their fears, claiming they felt “scared to open their doors” following the unrest. As the Independent Office for Police Conduct continues its review, the community waits with bated breath for the final outcome. Will there be accountability for the police’s actions, or will this tragic incident fade away into the background of public memory?

Kaynak: Orijinal Haber