Surrey Police officer who hit cow cleared of wrongdoing

Following events which led to a cow being injured in Staines-upon-Thames in the early hours of June 15, Surrey Police can confirm that this incident has been thoroughly investigated as both a criminal and internal misconduct matter and has now concluded.

Led by Surrey Police’s Professional Standards Department and overseen by a Sussex Police Senior Investigating Officer (SIO) from the Surrey Police and Sussex Police Major Crime Team, the comprehensive investigation reviewed over 250 pieces of video footage, 75 witness statements and obtained the expert opinions of animal welfare specialists to determine if the actions of those involved on the night amounted to the offence of causing unnecessary suffering to an animal.

The SIO has now completed their investigation and determined that while footage of the incident was distressing in nature, those involved in the incident acted within their duties, and the tactics adopted were both lawful and necessary to prevent harm to the public and property.

As such, no further action will be taken in either the criminal investigation, or the internal misconduct matter.

Deputy Chief Constable, Nev Kemp, said: “We appreciate the strength of feeling which remains in relation to this incident, which is why we committed to conducting a diligent and thorough investigation to determine whether any criminal offences had taken place in relation to the actions taken by Surrey Police on the night.

“This involved gathering substantial amounts of video evidence, as well as speaking to witnesses, and animal welfare specialists to help inform the SIOs decision making.

“After investigating for five months, the SIO found that while there is necessary organisational learning in relation to how we handle loose livestock, no criminal offences were made out and therefore no further action should be taken against those who were involved.

“This determination was supported by the Head of Professional Standards for Surrey Police who subsequently reviewed whether there was any potential misconduct.

“They determined a need for individual learning, but that no further action is taken in relation to misconduct.

“The driver of the vehicle will return to frontline duties in due course.

“This incident has highlighted several issues in relation to how the police respond to a loose livestock incident and therefore, as a force, we want to do what we can to reduce the possibility of any event like this happening again, not just in Surrey but anywhere in the country.

“We have reviewed the recommendations made by the SIO and experts in this area, and will be working to address these promptly, sharing any best practice with Forces across the UK.

“We have already made changes to our protocol for loose livestock.

“These changes were developed in partnership with a new national advice working group, which we established following the incident, to seek guidance from experts including the British Animal Rescue and Trauma Care Association, British Cattle Veterinary Association, National Farmers Union, and the National Rural Crime Unit.

“I am grateful to them for their support and guidance.”

Surrey Police’s revised protocol now ensures that in the event of a loose livestock incident, their specialist roads policing team will be deployed to support road and public safety and that early contact is made with Surrey Fire and Rescue Service to utilise their capability and expertise.  

This protocol will be supported by guidance and training to assist the decision making of those involved in any possible future livestock incidents.

The cow, Beau Lucy, is well and remains at the farm with her herd.