…By Henry George for TDPel Media.
A viral video capturing a Police Community Support Officer (PCSO) declining to attend an assault at a nearby shop has caused widespread outrage.
Sussex Police has launched an investigation after footage of the incident surfaced.
The force has also apologized for the PCSO’s “clumsy language” in the clip, wherein the officer suggests that attending the crime scene would entail having to deal with it.
The Incident and Public Outcry:
The dashcam video, which has now gone viral, shows a member of the public approaching a lone PCSO in a marked police car parked in Lancing, West Sussex.
The individual informs the PCSO about a fight that had just occurred at the Co-op, stating that people were trying to stop shoplifters while the officer appeared to be doing nothing.
The person further explains that a member of the public was assaulted by a drunk 15-year-old girl, who threw a drink in her face and punched her.
The man criticizes the PCSO for not responding promptly to the incident.
Controversial Response by the PCSO:
In response to the man’s remarks, the PCSO states that they are not a response unit.
The man suggests that the sight of the police car might deter the culprits, to which the PCSO replies, “Yeah, but then I have to deal with it.”
The man expresses disappointment in the PCSO’s response, accusing them of “cowardice.”
Criticism and Investigation:
The officer’s response has drawn widespread criticism on social media, with users expressing concern and disappointment.
Sussex Police has acknowledged the footage and initiated an investigation into the incident.
The force clarified that a police officer did eventually attend the assault at the Co-op as an emergency response, and the PCSO in the video also eventually arrived at the scene.
Reviewing the Response:
West Sussex local policing Superintendent Nick Dias issued an apology for the PCSO’s choice of words, acknowledging public concerns.
He stated that a police unit was dispatched to the scene as a matter of priority and that the force is reviewing its response to the incident.
Sussex Police also confirmed that they are investigating the Co-op assault and shoplifting incident, and they have made contact with the victim.
Reaffirming Commitment to Public Safety:
Superintendent Dias emphasized that ensuring public safety and a sense of security is of utmost importance.
He highlighted the efforts of officers and PCSOs in combating crime and anti-social behavior, often in challenging circumstances.
The force works closely with local retailers and partners to prevent and respond to incidents of anti-social behavior and assaults on shop workers.
Conclusion:
The viral video depicting a PCSO refusing to respond to an assault has sparked outrage and prompted an investigation by Sussex Police.
The force has apologized for the PCSO’s choice of words and assured the public that the incident is being reviewed.
As the investigation progresses, efforts to ensure public safety and tackle crime and anti-social behavior remain a priority for the police force.