PC cleared of misconduct during arrest of woman

An Essex Police officer accused of using excessive force during an arrest did not commit gross misconduct, it has been ruled.

PC Leonard Fogg, who was based in Basildon, had faced allegations he used a knee strike and an incapacitant spray during the arrest of a woman.

But he was found not guilty of assault by beating at Ipswich Magistrates' Court in July 2025 and Essex Police has cleared him of misconduct on Friday.

Assistant Chief Constable Glen Pavelin said the allegations were "fairly and properly" assessed.

Fogg, 28, was charged with assault by beating in October 2024 and stood trial, before he was cleared.

The Independent Office for Police Conduct then confirmed he would be facing a misconduct hearing.

Speaking after the ruling, Pavelin said: "There are occasions where officers are required to use force to safely resolve incidents, to protect themselves, their colleagues and the public.

"It is right, and the public expect, that officers only do so in a reasonable, proportionate and necessary way."

He insisted officers received "extensive training" about the appropriate use of force.

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