Police driver who hit cow cleared of wrongdoing

A police officer who sparked 2,000 complaints after ramming a cow on a road is returning to frontline duty after an investigation cleared him of wrongdoing.

The cow, named Beau Lucy, was struck in Staines-upon-Thames on 15 June, leading to complaints from the public after a video clip was shared on social media.

More than 250 pieces of video, 75 witness statements and animal welfare specialists were reviewed, police said.

“While footage of the incident was distressing in nature, those involved in the incident acted within their duties, and the tactics adopted were both lawful and necessary to prevent harm to the public and property,” a spokesperson said.

“As such, no further action will be taken in either the criminal investigation, or the internal misconduct matter.”

Beau Lucy, a 10-month-old calf, is now well and remains at a farm with her herd, police say.

Deputy Chief Constable Nev Kemp said the incident, which happened at at 00:30 BST, highlighted several issues in relation to how the police respond to loose livestock.

“We appreciate the strength of feeling which remains in relation to this incident, which is why we committed to conducting a diligent and thorough investigation to determine whether any criminal offences had taken place,” he said.

“We have already made changes to our protocol for loose livestock.”

The revised protocol includes specialist roads policing teams being deployed to support road and public safety, and that early contact is made with Surrey Fire & Rescue Service to utilise its capability and expertise.

She had been on the loose since about 21:00 the previous day, police said.

The day after the incident, Surrey Police announced the driver involved had been removed from frontline duties.