By James Simons-
A Metropolitan Police officer has been handed a 12-week suspended prison sentence for assaulting a man he mistook as a perpetrator rather than a victim of a reported crime.
PC Jonathan Marsh’s(pictured) actions was described as “disgusting and unwarranted” by Judge Annabel Pilling, who has spotlighted concerns over police conduct and the repercussions of mistaken identity within law enforcement.
The incident unfolded in November 2022 when PC Marsh responded to a report of a man damaging a sign on a clinic in Romford, east London.
Upon arrival, Marsh proceeded to punch Rasike Attanayake, who had dialled 999 to report the incident, before arresting him. Mr. Attanayake, a medical worker, found himself handcuffed and confined in a police car until officers realized their error and subsequently de-arrested him.
Westminster magistrates imposed a 12-week suspended prison sentence on Marsh, in addition to 150 hours of unpaid work and a £1,500 compensation order.
While Marsh, a resident of Canvey Island in Essex, had no prior convictions and received positive character references, Judge Pilling emphasized the severity of his actions, noting their potential impact on public trust and confidence in law enforcement.
Following the sentencing, Mr. Attanayake, a father-of-two originally from Sri Lanka, expressed the physical and psychological toll of the assault.
He recounted the challenges he faced, both in terms of physical injury and emotional distress, highlighting his inability to engage in activities like cricket due to shoulder issues stemming from the incident.
Mr. Attanayake also stressed the need for improved police training to prevent similar incidents in the future.
Despite the ordeal, Mr. Attanayake’s remarks highlighted his commitment to justice and his belief in the resilience of the legal system.
While acknowledging the damage to his trust in local police, he expressed no ill will towards law enforcement, emphasizing the importance of accountability and ongoing efforts to uphold the rule of law.