Hanover: Multiple police officers suspended from duty – investigations into assault and obstruction of justice
Hanover police headquarters has temporarily suspended several officers. They face accusations of physical assault and obstruction of criminal proceedings whilst in office.
Hanover: Multiple police officers suspended from duty – investigations into assault and obstruction of justice
Hanover police headquarters has temporarily suspended four male officers and one female officer from duty. Two further police officers have been transferred to other departments within the agency, and disciplinary proceedings are underway against them. The authority announced this on Monday, as reported by Der Spiegel.
The accused officers are alleged to have used physical force whilst on duty and obstructed criminal proceedings. The internal investigations also concern violations of duty and disregard for service instructions. The disciplinary proceedings have been partially suspended pending the completion of criminal investigations. A spokesperson confirmed to NDR that the inquiry also uncovered criminal offences.
Gwendolin von der Osten, the head of the police authority, described the allegations as serious. She stated that such accusations undermine public trust in the police. Should the suspicions be substantiated, the acts would not only violate legal regulations but also contradict the principles and values that the police stands for.
The authority announced that it would take all necessary legal steps. Until the allegations are clarified, the presumption of innocence applies to all those involved.