A METROPOLITAN police officer has been charged with assault after he wrongfully arrested a woman on suspicion of dodging a bus fare.

PC Perry Lathwood, 49, will appear at Westminster Magistrates’ Court to face one charge of assault by beating after the woman was left with bruising on her arm following a confrontation last year on 21 July on Whitehorse Road, Croydon. 

An angry crowd soon gathered in protest of the mother’s arrest whose visibly distressed son was present at the time

It was later discovered the innocent woman had paid for her bus fare and was de-arrested by the police officer at the scene.

WTF so this is how we do it @metpoliceuk over a bus fare …. In front of her child …. And you wonder why people are scared and hate the police ….. are you having a laugh – was sent this video this morning. #nojusticenopeace when we getting systemic change?!? pic.twitter.com/7fnt2SYI2h

— Saskia 🇵🇸 (@Saskia_Cole) July 22, 2023

However officers said she was asked to show her ticket for inspection but refused. 

The incident which was circulated widely on social media sparked outrage among the public and MPs amid a catalogue of race related policing blunders against Black people. 

An initial statement by the Metropolitan Police branded the woman as “aggressive” and was accused of “playing down” the severity of the altercation between the white police officer and a Black woman. 

An investigation by the Independent Office for Police Conduct (IOPC) took place days after the incident and ended in December, which resulted in the charge of assault from the Crown Prosecution Service. 

Chief superintendent Andy Brittain, who is responsible for policing in Croydon, said: “The news that an officer has been charged with assault will undoubtedly cause a great deal of concern. Officers know they must be able to justify their use of force. The Metropolitan Police Service has written to the IOPC seeking urgent clarity on the reasons for the charging decision.”