Teen ‘assaulted by policeman’ during drug raid

The suspension is understood to stem from an incident in Prestonpans earlier this month, which was witnessed by dozens of local residents.

He has been told by the force he would be suspended for a month and his warrant card was confiscated.

It is believed the alleged assault is related to a drug raid carried out in Prestonpans on Friday, July 6.

Officers recovered 60g of cocaine with a street value of £2300 and £3700 in cash at the property. Two men, aged 44 and 48, were charged as a result.

The allegation of assault is understood to stem from the male Pc’s handling of the teenager who is said to have broken through a police cordon

Lothian and Borders Police confirmed an officer had been suspended, but would not give details of the incident.

It is understood the officer concerned has twice been commended for his bravery while on duty.

A police spokesman said: “Following an allegation of assault by a serving Lothian and Borders Police officer, the Force has submitted a report to the Procurator Fiscal. We are currently awaiting further direction from the Crown Office and the officer has been suspended from duty.”

A Crown Office spokesperson said: “Following a complaint made against Lothian and Borders Police, a report has been received by the Procurator Fiscal for East of Scotland. At this stage the matter remains under consideration.”

It emerged earlier this month that allegations of misconduct against the police had soared by ten per cent in the last year.

The public made 1669 allegations about the behaviour of Lothian and Borders Police staff between last April and March, with accusations including assaults, harassment and discriminatory behaviour.

The allegations were lodged by 884 complainers, a figure which also rose nearly five per cent against the previous year.

The ability of the public to complain via the force website was cited as one potential reason behind the increase.

Police chiefs said they took complaints “very seriously”, adding that a drive to reduce their volume was being launched.