Hampshire Chief Constable Apologises to Henry Nowak Family for Dying Teenager's Arrest
Hampshire Police Chief Constable Alexis Boon has offered an apology to the family of Henry Nowak, expressing regret over the events captured on bodycam footage where the 18-year-old was handcuffed and arrested whilst fatally wounded. Mr Boon stated he was 'distressed' by the video, which shows Nowak repeatedly telling officers he had been stabbed and could not breathe.
The footage documents officers arresting Nowak after Vickrum Digwa, his murderer, made a false claim of racial abuse against the victim. Addressing the family directly, Mr Boon said, 'I'm so sorry you've had to go through this,' and reiterated the force's apology for the handling of Nowak's final moments. Despite the controversy, Mr Boon confirmed he would not resign and would await the outcome of an Independent Office of Police Conduct (IOPC) investigation.
Vickrum Digwa, 23, received a life sentence with a minimum term of 21 years on Monday for the December murder. One officer involved in the bodycam footage has since left the force for unrelated reasons, while three others have been removed from front-line duties.
Mark Nowak, Henry's father, stated after the sentencing that his family's grief would be a lifelong burden, describing the treatment of his son by police, compared to his killer, as 'unbearable.' However, he urged against using his son's death to 'create further division, hatred or tension.'
The circumstances of Nowak's death have drawn widespread criticism. Sir Keir Starmer accused Nigel Farage of exploiting the tragedy for 'grievance and division' after the Reform UK leader suggested 'pure cold rage' and alleged 'two-tier policing.' Mr Boon rejected this characterisation, asserting that officers serve all communities impartially. Hampshire Police and Crime Commissioner Donna Jones confirmed she had spoken to the victim's family, who also called for calm. The National Police Chiefs Council (NPCC) is reviewing its 'anti-racism commitments' and guidance.
Henry Nowak, who had been stabbed four times, repeatedly told police of his injuries, only for one officer to dismiss him with, 'I don't think you have mate.' He was then handcuffed, stating 'I can't breathe' before succumbing to his injuries at the scene. Kemi Badenoch, the Conservative leader, cited 'multiple failures,' while Shadow Home Secretary Chris Philp stated in the Commons that 'police appeared more concerned with the accusation of racism' than 'helping Henry.'
Nowak was attacked on 3 December whilst walking home from a night out with his football teammates. Judge William Mousley noted at trial that Digwa had brought shame upon his family and his religion. Digwa's mother, Kiran Jaur, 53, was also convicted of assisting an offender for attempting to conceal the murder weapon.
