Police Ombudsman Investigation: No Misconduct in Removal of Autistic Teen from Shop

There was no 'misconduct' when police dragged a young woman with autism from a shop in Lisburn in December, a Police Ombudsman investigation has found.

The Investigation
The Ombudsman has recommended that police officers receive better training, while a director with the Police Ombudsman's office described the incident as 'undoubtedly distressing'.

Public Outcry
Video of the teenager being ejected from the shop by several PSNI officers was widely shared on social media, becoming the subject of significant public commentary.

Family's Account
The woman's sister revealed that her teenage sister became upset when the sale of a £2 DVD was refused by shop staff who had closed the tills.

Enhancing Training
The Police Ombudsman recommended enhanced training for police officers to improve responses to autistic individuals with unique communication needs.