Two officers under investigation for potential gross misconduct in Henry Nowak case

Two police officers are under investigation for potential gross misconduct over how they dealt with Henry Nowak prior to his death.

Vickrum Digwa, 23, was last month jailed for life for stabbing the 18-year-old to death in December.

The teenager told officers he could not breathe and that he had been stabbed after he was attacked in Southampton.

Officers from Hampshire Constabulary failed to realise he was mortally injured and instead handcuffed him.

The Independent Office for Police Conduct (IOPC) has confirmed it is investigating the conduct of two officers.

The IOPC said evidence indicates that both officers - who were the first to arrive at the scene during the evening of 3 December - may have potentially breached the professional behaviour standards of duties and responsibilities, use of force, and discreditable conduct.

The watchdog added: "These relate to potential failures by the officers to recognise that Henry needed urgent medical attention, to immediately act after he said he had been stabbed and he couldn't breathe, and the decision to arrest and handcuff Henry rather than provide immediate first aid."

There is also an indication one of the officers may have breached the standard relating to authority, respect and courtesy, for appearing to dismiss Mr Nowak saying he had been stabbed, the IOPC said.

The watchdog is also looking at whether race or religion played a part in the officers' decision making.

Mr Nowak's family has been told of the decision.

IOPC director of engagement Derrick Campbell said: "We continue to extend our deepest sympathies to Henry's family and friends.

"Our investigators met with Henry's family earlier this month where we were able to discuss our investigation with them in depth, now that criminal proceedings have concluded.

"We are obliged to constantly review the evidence obtained throughout our investigations and assess any indications of potential misconduct for officers involved.

"As a result, two officers will now face gross misconduct investigations.

"There is clear evidence that public confidence in the force may have been seriously harmed by this incident, and that is a factor we must consider when assessing the evidence.

"The serving of gross misconduct notices does not necessarily mean that disciplinary proceedings will follow. At the end of our investigation, we will decide whether any officers should face disciplinary proceedings."

The IOPC said it had expanded its investigation following discussions with Mr Nowak's family, who have lodged formal complaints about the force.

The teenager's father Mark Nowak said the difference between the way the killer and his son were treated was "unbearable".

In response to the IOPC announcement, Hampshire and Isle of Wight Constabulary told Sky News: "We are aware of the latest update from the IOPC and continue to fully co-operate with their independent investigation.

"The officers are currently away from the workplace.

"If they return, they will be placed on directed duties that do not involve any contact with the public."

(c) Sky News 2026: Two officers under investigation for potential gross misconduct in Henry Nowak case