The Independent Office for Police Conduct (IOPC) has released an update regarding their investigation into the actions of the police before a tragic e-bike crash in Ely, Cardiff, which resulted in the deaths of two teenagers. This update comes following the ruling by the Crown Prosecution Service (CPS) that the officer involved will not be charged with dangerous driving. The incident occurred in May 2023 when Kyrees Sullivan, 16, and Harvey Evans, 15, crashed on a Sur-Ron bike shortly after being followed by a South Wales Police van in Ely, Cardiff. The event escalated tensions between locals and the police, leading to a riot that lasted several hours, resulting in injuries to numerous officers, property damage, and car fires.
Initially, the IOPC had informed the driver of the police van that they were under criminal investigation for dangerous driving and had been issued a gross misconduct notice. Another officer, who was a passenger in the van, had also been served with a gross misconduct notice. Recently, on April 7, the CPS announced that criminal charges would not be brought against the driver of the police van. Subsequently, an IOPC spokesperson revealed that the watchdog is finalising its decisions regarding potential disciplinary actions concerning the police van driver. David Ford, the director of the IOPC, expressed condolences to the families of the deceased teenagers and acknowledged the impact the incident had on the local community.
Moreover, the IOPC confirmed that a separate investigation concerning complaints from the families against South Wales Police is nearing completion. This investigation encompasses various areas, including how the families were treated at the scene of the tragic crash. Ford emphasised the meticulous analysis of evidence that led to the referral to the CPS, underscoring the importance of due process in such cases. He also mentioned that any potential disciplinary actions against the driver of the police van are still being finalised and updates will be provided accordingly.
The decision made by the CPS is subject to the Victim’s Right of Review (VRR) scheme, which allows victims or their families in certain cases to challenge CPS decisions regarding prosecution. The community has been updated on the progress of the investigation, and the IOPC has reiterated its commitment to transparency and thoroughness in its inquiries. Families of the victims and the local community have been thanked for their patience throughout the investigative process. The IOPC continues to engage with all relevant parties to ensure a comprehensive understanding of the circumstances surrounding the tragic incident.
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Overall, the ongoing investigation by the IOPC into the police actions preceding the fatal e-bike crash in Ely underscores the importance of accountability and transparency in law enforcement procedures. The outcome of the CPS ruling and the subsequent disciplinary considerations will have far-reaching implications for the affected families and the wider community. The commitment to thorough and diligent investigation by the IOPC ensures that all aspects of the case are scrutinised, providing a basis for justice and closure for those impacted by this tragic event.