Watchdog seeks witnesses after police officer strikes Sheffield Wednesday fan with baton

The police watchdog has begun an investigation into the actions of a South Yorkshire Police officer who struck a Sheffield Wednesday fan over his head with a baton.
By Claire Lewis
Published 17th Feb 2020, 06:57 BST
Updated 17th Feb 2020, 06:57 BST
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The Independent Office for Police Conduct has confirmed that it is investigating the incident in Barnsley on Saturday, February 8.

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An officer was filmed on a mobile phone striking a teenage boy over his head with a baton as fans made their way from Oakwell after Barnsley FC hosted Sheffield Wednesday.

A Sheffield Wednesday fan was left with a head wound and covered in blood after he was struck by a police officer with a baton earlier this monthA Sheffield Wednesday fan was left with a head wound and covered in blood after he was struck by a police officer with a baton earlier this month
A Sheffield Wednesday fan was left with a head wound and covered in blood after he was struck by a police officer with a baton earlier this month
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The teenager was left covered in blood from an open head wound and needed hospital treatment.

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Footage of the incident was shared online.The IOPC received a ‘mandatory referral’ from South Yorkshire Police and has now launched an investigation.

IOPC Regional Director, David Ford, said: “We understand why the images that were circulated caused considerable public concern. After the footage was shared on social media, a mandatory referral was made to us in relation to the conduct of the officer.

“It is vitally important that the circumstances of the incident are subject to an independent investigation so we can fully understand what happened and impartially determine the facts.

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“We have already begun to gather evidence, but would like to speak to anyone who may have witnessed the incident.”

It is not yet known whether the police officer involved in the incident has been suspended.

Witnesses to the incident, which took place at around 3.40pm in Midland Street, Barnsley, should call 0800 096 9076.

Information can also be passed on by emailing [email protected]