Policeman facing criminal charges over 'attack on suspect's car'

A police officer accused of attacking a suspect's car in an incident caught on film has been charged with assault and criminal damage.

Pc Joshua Savage is facing prosecution after footage appeared to show him smashing a car windscreen during a stop and search - before sawing it with a blade.

The dramatic video, filmed by the driver on September 16 and viewed thousands of times online, allegedly shows the officer launching the angry confrontation while a colleague watches.

When the man refuses to leave his Ford Fiesta in Vicars Road in Camden, north-west London, the Metropolitan Police officer can be heard saying "Get out of the car", adding: "You're not allowed to drive it."

His conduct was investigated after a member of the public complained to the Independent Police Complaints Commission (IPCC), which referred its conclusions to prosecutors in February 2017.

The watchdog said the Crown Prosecution Service authorised charges of common assault, possession of a bladed article, criminal damage and threatening behaviour against against Savage on Tuesday.

The Met Police said the officer remained on restricted duties and a misconduct review would take place following the conclusion of criminal proceedings.

Savage will appear at Westminster Magistrates' Court on April 20.

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