'Abusive' driver walks free after filming his arrest

Thursday, 24 June 2010
The Sun
Jun. 23, 2010

A DRIVER accused of being abusive by a cop walked free from court - because he had taped his arrest.

Dad Alan Snook was pulled over by PC Matthew Spencer for not wearing a seatbelt.

Alan, 42, was so alarmed by the cop's attitude he switched on his mobile.

In a seven-minute recording Spencer repeatedly told him to calm down and stop swearing - even though he was being polite - and nicked him.

When Alan asked about his 12-year-old son, who was crying beside him, the PC threatened to have him "put in welfare".

At the station Alan, of Bursledon, Hants, was charged with causing fear of unlawful violence and locked up for the night.

When the case came before Southampton magistrates PC Spencer alleged Alan had screamed "f*** off" and raised his fists.

He said the dad accused him of "f***ing harassment" and looked as if he meant to cause "serious harm".

However Alan's barrister played the recording and the case was thrown out.

Alan said: "If I hadn't taped the conversation his lies could have put me behind bars. It's a scandal."

A Hampshire Constabulary investigation found the PC's conduct "fell below the required standard".

Spencer featured in a series of Top Trumps-style cards produced by his force. His Top Tip was: "Never argue back".