Reece Richards, known for his roles in Sex Education and the West End musical Hairspray, has filed a formal complaint against the Metropolitan Police for wrongful arrest. The incident occurred on 4 September in west London, where Richards claims he was returning home from a performance when he witnessed a car crash and two men fleeing the scene.
According to Richards, he pointed out the direction in which the men had fled to the police, but instead of assisting him, the officers allegedly kicked and threw him to the ground. The Independent Office for Police Conduct (IOPC) is now investigating the matter, as the Met has admitted to using pepper spray during the incident.
Richards stated that he was restrained by four police officers, exacerbating existing injuries to his back, ribs, and stomach. He has accused the police of racial profiling, claiming that he was targeted because of his race. A video shared on social media by Richards showed multiple officers holding him to the ground, with a Taser reportedly pointed at him but not discharged.
In a statement on Instagram, Richards expressed his distress over the incident, describing it as embarrassing, deeply upsetting, and exhausting. He vowed to uncover the truth behind the wrongful arrest and expressed solidarity with others who may have experienced similar treatment.
The IOPC confirmed that they have received a complaint referral from the Met Police regarding the incident and will assess if further action is necessary. Meanwhile, the Met revealed that the driver involved in the car crash, a 15-year-old, was arrested for various offenses, while two other passengers were also apprehended.
As the investigation unfolds, Richards remains determined to seek justice and hold the authorities accountable for their actions.
