Cop admits punching and kicking man during arrest

A police officer has pleaded guilty after kicking and punching a man during an arrest.

Police Constable Thomas Karlsen, 22, attached to the South West Basic Command Unit (BCU), which covers Wandsworth, Richmond, Merton and Kingston, appeared at Westminster Magistrates’ Court yesterday, where he pleaded guilty to the offence.

He was released on bail and will be sentenced at the same court on August 8.

In November 2022, PC Karlsen attended an address in New Malden following a report of a domestic dispute.

When he arrived, he arrested a man on suspicion of breach of the peace. During the arrest, he punched the man, kicked him twice and used PAVA spray at close proximity.

PAVA spray is an incapacitant spray like pepper spray. PAVA affects the eyes, causing closure and severe pain.

PC Karlsen was interviewed and later suspended from duty. Misconduct proceedings will now take place.

Detective Chief Superintendent Clair Kelland, in charge of the South West BCU, said: “The powers given to us as officers must be used fairly and professionally and it is clear that this was not the case on this occasion.

“The high standards we expect were not met and it is right that appropriate action was taken.”

(Picture: The Met)