A demotion has been imposed on a police sergeant following the tragic death of a man who was left stranded by officers three miles away from his residence and subsequently killed in a hit-and-run accident.
The incident unfolded when police responded to a call regarding the behavior of 35-year-old Gareth Roper, a father of six, on New Year’s Day 2022. Roper was taken into custody briefly but was released outside an Iceland store in Platt Bridge without money or his phone. He was left to navigate his way home on foot after being dropped off by the police van.
Tragically, Roper was struck by a vehicle driven by Jamie Evans, 32, while walking on Lily Lane in Bamfurlong, Greater Manchester. The collision resulted in Roper sustaining fatal head injuries, and Evans was later sentenced to nine years in prison in 2023.
Following a misconduct hearing that spanned seven days, it was determined that Greater Manchester Police Sergeant David Wood had violated professional standards, leading to his demotion to the rank of Police Constable. Additionally, a former sergeant and two Police Constables involved in the incident were found to have engaged in misconduct. The two officers are set to undergo reflective practice sessions to enhance their performance.
In the aftermath of the 2022 investigation, the Independent Office for Police Conduct (IOPC) forwarded a file of evidence to the Crown Prosecution Service for potential charges against the officers, though no charges were pursued. IOPC Director Amanda Rowe expressed condolences to Roper’s family, emphasizing the duty of care owed to individuals in police custody. The IOPC’s independent investigation aimed to ensure accountability for those responsible for the incident.
The findings of the investigation were shared with the coroner to aid in the coronial process. While acknowledging that the suffering of Roper’s loved ones cannot be erased, the IOPC hopes that the accountability measures taken will assist the family in finding closure.