Manchester Police Officer Reprimanded for Mishandling Homeless Man Outside Town Hall

A disturbing incident involving a Greater Manchester Police officer and a homeless man outside Manchester Town Hall has sparked significant concern. The officer was filmed exerting force on the homeless man, attempting to remove him from his sleeping bag by pressing her foot against his stomach. This act, captured in a video that has since gained public attention, has led to widespread criticism of the officer’s conduct, which Greater Manchester Police acknowledged as falling below expected standards.

In response to the incident that occurred last September, the police force has taken measures to address the situation, including providing the involved officer with refresher training to better handle similar scenarios in the future. The video not only shows the officer’s aggressive approach but also the presence of other officers at the scene, raising questions about the treatment of rough sleepers by law enforcement.

The homeless man, reportedly a refugee from Sudan, experienced injuries from the encounter and sought medical attention. He recounted the distressing experience, highlighting his plea for a place to rest being met with physical aggression.

The charity Crisis expressed its dismay over the treatment of the homeless man, emphasizing the importance of respecting and supporting individuals experiencing homelessness. The incident has led to calls for enhanced training for police officers to ensure they provide appropriate support to vulnerable individuals on the streets.

Greater Manchester Police has since addressed the issue, emphasizing that such behavior is unacceptable and assuring that steps have been taken to prevent a recurrence. The force’s commitment to respecting community members and ensuring the welfare of all, including those without shelter, remains a priority amidst growing concerns over the rising number of rough sleepers in England, as recent statistics indicate a significant increase in homelessness.