Lancashire police officer who threatened to ‘make something up’ to arrest man faces gross misconduct investigation

A Lancashire Police officer – who has not been named – was suspended in April after a video circulated online of him telling a man: “Who are they going to believe, me or you?”

The Independent Office for Police Conduct (IOPC) confirmed today (June 18) investigations were continuing after the case was referred to them by Lancashire Constabulary on April 20.

The officer who threatened to "make something up" has now been notified that he is under investigation for gross misconduct.

A colleague of the officer has also been notified that they are under investigation for misconduct for an allegation that he did not challenge or report the conduct of the first officer.

IOPC regional director Amanda Rowe said: "I recognise that this incident has caused concern in the local community and, understandably, has raised questions about the conduct of the officers.

"It is our role to independently investigate the matter to ensure the officers are accountable for their actions and to identify if any broader lessons could be learned.

"This work is under way, and is progressing well. Lancashire Constabulary, and the two officers, are cooperating with our inquiries."

The serving of the notice is not an implication of guilt, but to inform the officer their conduct is under investigation

The IOPC has also confirmed they have spoken to the man who was stopped by the officers and will keep him regularly updated about the investigation.

The man involved had told officers he was out picking up a quad bike he had bought when he was pulled over by police on Coach Road in Accrington on April 17.

In the video, the driver was heard saying: “"You’re harassing me, what for? I’ve done nothing wrong…"

But the officer responds: "Sit in your car and shut up.

"I’ll lock you up… I’ll make something up… Who are they going to believe, me or you?"

Lancashire Police apologised for the officer’s "completely unacceptable" language and behaviour after the footage emerged