Police Watchdog Investigates Officers Who Handcuffed Dying Henry Nowak in Southampton
The Independent Office for Police Conduct (IOPC) has launched an investigation into Hampshire and Isle of Wight Constabulary after officers handcuffed a dying Henry Nowak, 18, following a fatal stabbing in Southampton. First-year university student Nowak had sustained multiple wounds from a 21cm ceremonial knife in December.
Vickrum Digwa, 23, was convicted of Nowak’s murder this week, having initially lied to police, claiming he was the victim and alleging racist abuse. The prosecution successfully argued Digwa fabricated a “wicked lie” to evade justice, a claim the jury accepted.
Nowak, a finance student from Chafford Hundred, Essex, was attempting to flee his attacker, leaving a blood trail, when police arrived. However, based on Digwa's false accusations, officers arrested and handcuffed Nowak as he lost consciousness. Subsequent toxicology reports confirmed Nowak's alcohol levels were below the drink-drive limit, contradicting Digwa's claims.
Temporary Deputy Chief Constable Robert France issued an apology, acknowledging the tragedy that officers “did not immediately understand what had happened to Henry.” France stated the force would not “hide the facts” and pledged full cooperation with the IOPC’s investigation, which is examining the officers' contact with Nowak, including the use of handcuffs and the first aid administered. The officers involved are currently being treated as witnesses.
Crime and Policing Minister Sarah Jones commented on the “truly horrific case,” stating it was “right that an IOPC investigation has been launched… to get to the truth.” Digwa is due to be sentenced at Southampton Crown Court on Monday.
