Met Police sergeant and PC to face trial over alleged assault on suspect during stop and search

A female Met Police sergeant and a male police constable are to face trial accused of assault by beating on a suspect they stopped and searched in north London last year.

It follows an incident on Wykeham Road, Hendon, during which the officers allegedly stopped and then assaulted Emmanuel Urborokefe.

Sgt Emily Joshi and PC Ozan Yelken, who both serve with the Met’s north- west command, were at a hearing at Westminster Magistrates’ Court today (Friday, July 15).

Joshi, 30, of Watford, Hertfordshire, and Yelken, 32, of Waltham Abbey, Essex, were both charged with assault by beating contrary to section 39 of the Criminal Justice Act 1988.

Both entered a plea of not guilty.

Yelken, dressed in a dark suit and tie and white shirt, and Yoshi, in a light grey top and dark grey trousers, spoke to confirm their names, addresses, dates of birth and to enter pleas.

Lawyers, Abigail Husbands, prosecuting, and Ben Salmons, defence, agreed a trial date with the presiding judge.

District Judge Bristow said: “Because you’ve both pleaded not guilty, there will have to be a trial.

“I’m going to remand you both on unconditional bail.

“You must come back to court at that time and on that date. If you do not do so, the trial may go ahead in your absence.

“That is also an offence under the Bail Act.”

The trial will be held at City of London court on September 29 and 30, 2022.

The case follows a referral by the Met Police to the IOPC.

Ch Supt Sara Leach said: “I know that this charge will, of course, be concerning.

“We have fully supported the IOPC with their investigation.

“As criminal proceedings are now active, I am unable to provide any more comment as it is really important that we do not undermine or interfere with this case.”