Jocelyn Agyemang, a mother, was allegedly assaulted by a police officer named Pc Perry Lathwood for allegedly evading bus fare. The incident took place in Croydon, south London, in front of her young son, and left her with bruising injuries to her arm. The arrest occurred when officers asked Agyemang to show her ticket as she left the bus, where ticket inspectors were present, on July 21 last year.
The prosecution, represented by Paul Jarvis in City of London Magistrates’ Court, argued that the arrest was unjustified and the force used was unreasonable. A video played in court showed Agyemang asking the officer to release her and explaining that she had done nothing wrong. Despite confirming that she had paid her fare, Lathwood continued to hold her and demand that she tap her card. Another officer eventually took her card to confirm payment and she was de-arrested.
Agyemang expressed feeling “violated” by the incident and stated that she felt degraded and scared during the encounter. She mentioned that she was confused at the time and in a hurry to reach her mother’s house and a scheduled appointment. The defense questioned why she walked off initially and why she resisted police, to which she responded that she did not see it as such. Lathwood, who denies the charge of assault by beating, is part of the Metropolitan Police’s Road Traffic Policing Command and appeared in court for the trial.
The court heard that the arrest and physical handling of Agyemang were unnecessary and unjustified, given that she had paid her fare. The prosecution argued that Lathwood acted unlawfully and used excessive force during the incident. Despite confirming her payment, he continued to hold her and handcuffed her, leading to the involvement of a second officer to verify the payment. Agyemang described the experience as scary due to past experiences and feeling like she had done nothing wrong.
Lathwood’s defense team questioned Agyemang’s actions during the incident and her perceived resistance to the police. They argued that her behavior may have contributed to the escalation of the situation. The trial continues as both sides present their case and evidence. The incident has raised concerns about police conduct and the appropriate use of force in such situations, highlighting the importance of accountability and respect in law enforcement interactions. Agyemang’s testimony sheds light on the emotional impact of such incidents on the individuals involved and the need for fair treatment and justice.
