Police Misconduct Investigation: Tragic Stabbing Incident Involving Henry Nowak
Two Hampshire police officers are currently facing an investigation for potential gross misconduct in connection with the tragic stabbing incident involving student Henry Nowak. The Independent Office for Police Conduct (IOPC) is looking into the officers' actions during the arrest and handcuffing of Mr. Nowak after he was stabbed by Vickrum Digwa on December 3, 2025. The officers are also being scrutinized for allegedly failing to recognize the urgent need for medical assistance for the 18-year-old finance student. Despite Mr. Nowak's pleas for help and his disclosure of being stabbed and struggling to breathe, the officers reportedly did not provide immediate medical attention. Tragically, Mr. Nowak collapsed and passed away on a street in Southampton, succumbing to his injuries, which included multiple stab wounds, including a fatal one to his heart. Vickrum Digwa, the perpetrator, was sentenced to life imprisonment with a minimum term of 21 years for the murder of Mr. Nowak and for carrying a bladed weapon in public. Additionally, Digwa's mother, Kiran Kaur, was found guilty of assisting an offender by removing the weapon from the scene and is awaiting sentencing on July 17. The IOPC is specifically investigating the officers' potential failures to recognize the urgency of Mr. Nowak's medical needs, respond to his pleas for help, and their decision to arrest and handcuff him instead of providing immediate medical assistance. One of the officers is also being probed for potentially dismissing Mr. Nowak's claim of being stabbed. The IOPC is also examining whether race or religion influenced the officers' decision-making process. Derrick Campbell, the IOPC director of engagement, expressed condolences to Henry's family and friends and highlighted ongoing discussions with the family regarding the investigation following the conclusion of criminal proceedings.