Former PC 71474 Daniel Rusling

A special case hearing has concluded that the former Wiltshire Police officer convicted of assaulting a child on duty would have been dismissed had he not resigned.

Last month, Daniel Rusling admitted one count of assault by beating and was given an eight-week custodial sentence suspended for 12 months and unpaid work.

The incident took place outside Monkton Park police station, Chippenham, in the early hours of October 14 last year when the 13-year-old victim, who was among a group of six children, had called 999 asking for help after reporting being threatened by people in a car.

Body Worn Video captured Mr Rusling, who was a response officer at the time, repeatedly swearing at the child, who was wearing his school uniform, and pushing him aggressively several times.

Thankfully, the child was not injured as a result of the assault.

Yesterday (20/07), Assistant Chief Constable Deb Smith chaired the hearing and concluded that, had Mr Rusling not resigned last week, he would have been dismissed without notice.

He was also placed on the Police Barred List with immediate effect.

The full report of yesterday’s hearing can be found below.