Investigation Launched into Officers' Conduct
The Independent Office for Police Conduct (IOPC) has initiated a gross misconduct investigation into two police officers involved in the case of Henry Nowak. Nowak, 18, was fatally stabbed in December 2025 and subsequently arrested and handcuffed by officers as he lay dying. The watchdog's inquiry focuses on whether the officers failed to recognize Nowak's urgent medical needs and their decision to arrest him instead of providing immediate first aid.
Details of the Incident and Subsequent Conviction
Henry Nowak was killed by Vickrum Digwa, who used a large blade and later falsely claimed to police that he was the victim of a racist attack. Digwa received a life sentence in June, with a minimum term of 21 years. The BBC previously reported that it took officers eight minutes to discover Nowak's fatal stab wound after their arrival at the scene.
Concerns Regarding Professional Standards
The IOPC indicated that evidence suggests the initial responding officers may have violated professional standards. Specific concerns include a potential failure to provide medical assistance and the decision to handcuff Nowak. Additionally, there are indications that one officer may have breached standards related to authority, respect, and courtesy by appearing to dismiss Nowak's statement about being stabbed.
Family Complaints and Expanded Investigation
Nowak's family, from Chafford Hundred in Essex, has been informed of the investigation. They have filed formal complaints regarding the police's treatment of Henry compared to Digwa and his family members. The IOPC has expanded its investigation to examine these complaints, including decisions made by the Hampshire and Isle of Wight Constabulary (HIOWC) control room staff regarding call handling and information dissemination.
Derrick Campbell, IOPC director of engagement, stated, "Our investigators met with Henry's family earlier this month where we were able to discuss our investigation with them in depth, now that criminal proceedings have concluded. Two officers will now face gross misconduct investigations. There is clear evidence that public confidence in the force may have been seriously harmed by this incident, and that is a factor we must consider when assessing the evidence." He clarified that a gross misconduct notice does not automatically lead to disciplinary proceedings, with a final decision to be made at the investigation's conclusion.
Consideration of Race and Community Tensions
The investigation will also explore whether the race or religion of Henry Nowak or the Digwa family influenced the officers' actions and decision-making. This includes examining if decisions were swayed by assumptions or prejudice stemming from community tensions, particularly in light of anti-immigration protests that occurred in Southampton prior to Nowak's death.
Public Reaction and Future Actions
The release of police bodycam footage showing the officers' interactions with Nowak led to protests in Southampton in June, resulting in injuries to police officers and a police dog. Leaders within Southampton's Sikh community have since called for peace, condemning Digwa's actions. The Attorney General's Office has referred Digwa's sentence to the Court of Appeal for review under the unduly lenient sentence scheme. A full inquest into Henry Nowak's death is scheduled for next year in Winchester.
Source: Nowak case officers face gross misconduct investigation
