Peacehaven: Two Sussex Police officers could face charges

The Independent Office for Police Conduct (IOPC) is referring a file of evidence to the Crown Prosecution Service to consider charges against the two Sussex officers.

They are being investigated over the death of 27-year-old Arthur Hoelscher-Ermert who was hit by an unmarked BMW near Bramber Avenue in Peacehaven on April 30 last year. He died at the scene.
Arthur Hoelscher-Ermert

According to the IOPC, moments before the crash, Arthur had got out of an Audi in Bramber Avenue after "being pursued by another police vehicle". He crossed on to the A259 and was hit by the BMW.

The IOPC said: "During our investigation, an officer was advised they were being criminally investigated for the offence of causing death by dangerous driving.

"The officer was subsequently advised they were also under investigation for the offence of unlawful act manslaughter." 

It said a second officer was advised they "were under criminal investigation for the offence of perverting the course of justice".

The black BMW being taken from the scene

IOPC regional director Mel Palmer said: “Following the conclusion of our investigation and after carefully considering the evidence, we have decided there is an indication that both officers may have committed a criminal offence.

“It’s important to note that a referral to the CPS does not necessarily mean that criminal charges will follow.

"It will now be for the CPS to determine whether charges should be brought and if so, what charges those should be.

“We have informed the family of Arthur Hölscher-Ermert and have kept them updated throughout our investigation and we have also advised the officers of our decision.

A large crowd walking up to Sussex Police HQ in Lewes led by Arthur's older brother Karl, pictured with the megaphone

“Our sympathies remain with everyone affected by this incident.”

After the incident, there was outcry from the community and members of Arthur's family who held vigils at the scene and a large protest outside Sussex Police's headquarters in Lewes.

A Sussex Police spokeswoman said: "We have supported the independent investigation and continue to offer our full co-operation.

"We await the outcome of the decision by the CPS and will take appropriate action in response to the IOPC report which we have now received.

"As this remains a live criminal investigation, we are unable to comment further."