Today the Court of Appeal ruled that “nothing could justify” the way in which seven Metropolitan Police officers heavily restrained a severely autistic and epileptic child – known as “ZH” – while he visited a local swimming pool.
During the trip ZH, who cannot swim, became fixated by the water – a common reaction of those suffering from autism. He presented no danger but the pool manager called police. On arrival officers failed to consult ZH’s carers and touched him on the back and started talking directly to him – prompting the child to jump into the water. He was then removed from the pool and forcibly restrained by seven police officers. ZH was placed in handcuffs and leg restraints and put into a cage at the back of a police van. His detention lasted around 40 minutes.
ZH was left frightened and distressed – suffering from post-traumatic stress disorder and an exacerbation of his epilepsy. The County Court originally upheld his father’s claims against the Metropolitan Police for assault, battery and false imprisonment, disability discrimination and violations of Articles 3, 5 and 8 of the Human Rights Act – no inhuman or degrading treatment, the right to liberty and the right to respect for private and family life. But the Commissioner of the Metropolitan Police appealed – bringing the case back before the Court of Appeal. Click here for more
