Police Officer Found Guilty of Assaulting Teen in Wigan Care Home
A Greater Manchester Police (GMP) officer has been convicted of assault after grabbing a 16-year-old boy by the throat at a care home in Wigan. PC Benjamin Heppenstall was found guilty of assault occasioning actual bodily harm following a January 2021 incident while on duty.
Shocking Bodycam Footage Sealed Verdict
The five-day trial at Bolton Crown Court ended on September 27, 2024. Crucial body-worn camera footage captured the entire violent encounter, playing a key role in the jury’s decision.
PC Heppenstall had responded to threats reported against two female staff at the care home. After arresting two suspects, he confronted the teenager sitting nearby. When the boy refused to leave the room and go to bed, the officer forced the situation, grabbing him violently by the throat and pulling him off the sofa, ripping his t-shirt in the process.
Care Worker Intervenes During Assault
Heppenstall’s second grab caused the boy injuries and prompted a care worker to step in. Witnesses and video evidence confirmed the officer’s heavy-handed tactics.
Investigation and Consequences Ahead
GMP’s Professional Standards Directorate launched an investigation after receiving a formal complaint. Detective Chief Inspector Iqbal Ahmed, who heads the team, condemned the actions as a “shocking use of unnecessary and excessive force on a defenceless teenager.”
“Body-worn cameras are crucial—not just for officer protection but to safeguard the public,” said DCI Ahmed.
PC Heppenstall has been on restricted duties since the incident and now faces suspension. GMP is preparing misconduct proceedings. He is due for sentencing on November 27, 2024.
