PCs accused of injuring detained man, says watchdog

Two Sussex police officers have been charged with assault after allegedly using unlawful force on a man detained under the Mental Health Act, a watchdog has said.

PC Richard Harris, 36, and PC Lorenzo Fenu, 28, are accused of injuring the man detained in hospital on 16 April, according to the Independent Office for Police Conduct (IOPC).

The watchdog said both officers had been charged with assault occasioning actual bodily harm following an investigation.

The IOPC said it had begun investigating after receiving a mandatory referral from Sussex Police.

Harris and Fenu are due to appear at Sevenoaks Magistrates' Court on 10 November.

Follow BBC Sussex on Facebook, X, and Instagram and listen to BBC Radio Sussex on Sounds. Send your story ideas to southeasttoday@bbc.co.uk or WhatsApp us on 08081 002250.