Police experts disagree if Bristol officer used excessive force against a woman in April 2023 during an incident.
The incident happened April 16, 2023. It was at The Centre late at night. A woman, Miss A, was very drunk. She kicked a metal bin several times.
Tucker allegedly threw her down quickly. He didn’t try talking to her first. He faces accusations of sex discrimination too; he handled two men differently that evening when he just told them to leave.
Tucker claims he acted properly. He thought there was a risk of harm. He feared damage to property and said the woman might run away. So, he grabbed her and knocked her off balance.
The hearing continued February 25. Expert Ian Mills testified that actions outside training aren’t always wrong. Quick decisions matter in fast situations; a rapid takedown can help officers. Mills thought Tucker’s actions were generally okay.
A lawyer questioned Mills intensely. He asked about Tucker’s changing story. The lawyer said Tucker claimed the woman was a threat. Mills said actions aligned with training if threats existed.
The other expert, Alistair Price, had a different view. He said if no threats existed, Tucker acted against training. But, one threat alone didn’t justify his actions, said Price.
The panel met to discuss the case. They deliberated on February 26. They will announce their decision February 27. The hearing is ongoing.