A Sutton police officer who punched a man several times after they spat at him has been found to have committed gross misconduct following an investigation.

PC Steven Harrison attended a public misconduct hearing, from September 10 to 14, at Scotland Yard’s Empress State Building in Lillie Road.

He faced allegations that his conduct breached professional behaviour standards in relation to “discreditable conduct” and “use of force”.

The panel heard that, on February 9, 2017, while officers were making an arrest the man who was being held spat in PC Harrison’s face.

It was after this he punched the man numerous times.

He was given a final written warning after evidence, including from colleagues, and mitigation were heard.