Inquiry started over CS spray use

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Three police officers have been placed on restricted duty and an internal inquiry started after film emerged of close-range use of CS spray on a man.

Essex Police said the inquiry related to an incident in Brentwood High Street on Sunday night, when a man was arrested by officers using CS spray.

Police said the case had been voluntarily referred to the Independent Police Complaints Commission.

A 28-year-old man from Romford was charged with assaulting a paramedic.

He was also charged with being drunk and disorderly and using threatening words or behaviour.

He was bailed to appear at Basildon magistrates' court on 24 September.

A 16-year-old girl from Brentwood was charged with two counts of obstructing a police officer and was bailed to appear at Grays youth court on 25 September.

'Any allegations investigated'

Police attending a fire at The Sugar Hut club in Brentwood on Sunday were asked by staff at a nearby pub to deal with a disturbance.

Civil rights group Liberty criticised the use of CS spray on a man, apparently at close quarters, during an arrest.

Corinna Ferguson, from Liberty, said it was difficult to justify using a spray at close range.

Essex Police said the officers placed on restricted duties "will not be allowed to have any contact with members of the public during this time".

Investigating officer Det Insp Angelina Crook said: "We are committed to ensuring that the actions of all officers are beyond reproach.

"Any allegations of excessive force or assault are taken very seriously and will be thoroughly investigated."

Any witnesses to the incident or anyone who has information in connection with it is urged to contact Essex Police.