North Wales Copper Cleared in Nightclub Arrest Row
PC Ellis Thomas Found Not Guilty of GBH
A North Wales Police officer has been acquitted of grievous bodily harm after a dramatic arrest outside a Bangor nightclub. PC Ellis Thomas faced charges over the alleged assault of 17-year-old Harley Murphy on January 29, 2023. Today, Mold Crown Court delivered a not guilty verdict following a six-day trial.
IOPC Investigation Backs Police Officer
The Independent Office for Police Conduct (IOPC) launched a probe into the incident, which led to the Crown Prosecution Service (CPS) charging the officer with GBH. After the acquittal, IOPC Director Derrick Campbell said, “Having heard and tested the evidence, the court has now reached its decision and we respect its verdict. This was a serious allegation, against a child, so it was important the incident was independently and thoroughly investigated.”
“Child” Terminology Sparks Debate
The trial has ignited fresh debate over official language, with critics questioning the IOPC’s use of “child” to describe a 17-year-old. Opponents argue this could skew public opinion, pointing out that at 16, individuals are legally allowed to join the British Armed Forces.
Police Call for Transparency Amid Tough Job
Deputy Chief Constable Nigel Harrison accepted the court’s ruling, stating, “We acknowledge the decision of the court today. This has been an independently-led investigation by the IOPC and we will now liaise with them in order for the misconduct investigation to be brought to a conclusion.”
The incident underscores the challenges officers face in high-pressure situations. Campaigners have called for more transparency, demanding full public access to bodycam footage and detailed accounts to shed light on the events leading to the use of force.
