Police and Crime Commissioner reacts to death of Henry Nowak

Police and Crime Commissioner Donna Jones says the manner in which Henry Nowak lost his life is a national tragedy.

In a statement released today after Henry’s killer, Vickrum Digwa was found sentenced to life for his murder with a minimum tariff of 21 years, the Commissioner said: “It is clear the way in which Henry died is harrowing.

“Today we have heard from Henry’s family, and the lifelong grief they will endure.

“Henry was falsely accused of racially aggravated assault as he lay dying on the ground, while his attacker stood by denying the violent act he had inflicted upon him.

“The incident that led to Henry being arrested and handcuffed was part of Digwa’s cruel intentions to frame himself as the victim.

“It is devasting the officers did not believe Henry when he said he’d been stabbed and couldn’t breathe.

“When officers realised he was gravely wounded, they uncuffed him and started CPR.

“His death is a national tragedy.

“The details of the police response raises serious concerns about police impartiality, fairness and judgement.

“Hampshire & Isle of Wight Constabulary has apologised for handcuffing and arresting Henry minutes before he died.

“The force also referred itself to the Independent Office for Police Conduct (IOPC) the day after Henry lost his life.

“The findings of the IOPC review will be published, and as Commissioner I am committed to ensuring the findings are implemented without delay.

“Central to this incident is the fact that Vickrum Digwa was able to carry a knife in public because there is an exemption for those who observe the Sikh faith to carry ceremonial daggers.

“As Commissioner, I intend to write to the Prime Minister to request a national review of the laws concerning the carrying of bladed articles under religious exemptions.

“Nothing can bring Henry back.  There is no doubt Henry’s last moments were terrifying.

“My thoughts my remain with his family and I will do everything I can to ensure this can never happen again in this country.”