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After being cleared of murder in the shooting of Chris Kaba, the Metropolitan Police officer involved, Sgt Martyn Blake, is now facing a gross misconduct hearing. This decision was confirmed by the police watchdog, the Independent Office for Police Conduct (IOPC). Sgt Blake shot Mr Kaba in the head during an incident in Streatham on 5th September 2022, after Mr Kaba attempted to escape from a police vehicle stop. The officer, who is 41 years old and part of the specialist firearms unit MO19, was acquitted of murder by a jury.
Metropolitan Assistant Commissioner Laurence Taylor expressed his opposition to further action against Sgt Blake, citing the extensive evidence presented during the trial and the jury’s not guilty verdict. However, the IOPC based its decision on a thorough examination of all available evidence and all involved parties’ opinions. It was concluded that there is enough evidence to warrant a disciplinary panel investigating the matter.
During Sgt Blake’s murder trial, it was revealed that officers were unaware of Mr Kaba’s identity when he was shot. The Audi he was in had connections to a prior shooting in south London, and Mr Kaba was linked to multiple criminal activities before his death. Following Sgt Blake’s charges, many armed Metropolitan Police officers halted their services in protest, with the Army even being put on standby. Testimonies from Sgt Blake’s colleagues during the trial indicated that they were prepared to shoot if he hadn’t acted.
Moving forward, the IOPC highlighted the importance of following the legal process in reaching its decision. Recognizing the impact on both Chris Kaba’s family and Sgt Blake, the watchdog emphasized the necessity of adhering to legislation and guidelines in such cases. The Metropolitan Police echoed similar sentiments, emphasizing the professionalism and accountability of their armed officers. While the date for the IOPC hearing is pending, the force assured that an impartial chief officer from another police department would preside over the proceedings. Chris Kaba’s family welcomed news of the upcoming hearing, hoping it would lead to Sgt Blake’s expulsion from the police force
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