The Independent Office for Police Conduct (IOPC) has referred a Nottinghamshire Police officer to the Crown Prosecution Service (CPS) for potential criminal charges following a fatal road collision that claimed the life of Trevor Bartlett, aged 80.
The tragic incident occurred on December 19, 2023, when a police van struck Mr. Bartlett as he was using a pedestrian crossing on the A52 Derby Road in Beeston, Nottingham. Despite immediate medical assistance, Mr. Bartlett was pronounced dead at the scene.
Details of the Incident
The IOPC investigation revealed that the police van was transporting a detainee to a custody facility and was traveling in a bus lane with blue lights and sirens activated at the time of the collision. The van struck Mr. Bartlett as he crossed the road, leading to the fatal outcome.
Following the incident, Nottinghamshire Police referred the case to the IOPC, which immediately deployed investigators to the scene and to the force’s post-incident procedures to gather evidence.
Investigation Findings and Referral
The police constable driving the van was interviewed under criminal caution for the potential offences of:
- Causing death by dangerous driving
- Causing death by careless or inconsiderate driving
The officer was also served with a notice of investigation for gross misconduct.
As part of the investigation, a comprehensive forensic collision report was completed by Nottinghamshire Police and peer-reviewed by another force. A reconstruction of the incident was also carried out at the scene.
After completing its investigation in December 2024, the IOPC has now referred the case to the Crown Prosecution Service to consider whether criminal charges should be brought against the officer.
IOPC Statement
IOPC Director Derrick Campbell commented on the referral, saying:
“Following thorough and careful analysis of all the evidence, we have decided there is an indication an officer may have committed a criminal offence in relation to the manner of their driving and a file has been referred to the Crown Prosecution Service (CPS).”
“I am satisfied we have gathered all the available evidence, and it is now for the CPS to consider whether to bring criminal charges. We will continue to keep Trevor Bartlett’s family updated, and our thoughts remain with them and all those affected by his death.”
The IOPC emphasized that a referral to the CPS does not guarantee criminal charges will be filed. The CPS will apply the legal test set out in the Code for Crown Prosecutors to determine whether there is sufficient evidence and if prosecution is in the public interest.
Gross Misconduct Proceedings
In addition to the CPS referral, the IOPC concluded that there is a case to answer for gross misconduct. Nottinghamshire Police has agreed with the assessment, and a disciplinary hearing will be arranged at a later date to determine whether the officer violated professional standards.
Community Impact and Family Response
The death of Trevor Bartlett has deeply affected the local community in Beeston. Tributes poured in following the incident, with neighbors describing Mr. Bartlett as a “kind and gentle soul” who was well-loved in the area.
His family, who have been kept informed throughout the investigation, expressed mixed emotions over the recent developments. “We are relieved that there is some progress, but nothing will ever bring Dad back,” said Mr. Bartlett’s daughter. “We just want accountability and justice for him.”
Next Steps
The CPS will now review the evidence and decide whether to press criminal charges. Meanwhile, Nottinghamshire Police will proceed with preparations for the disciplinary hearing, the outcome of which could significantly impact the officer’s future in the force.
This case has reignited conversations about emergency vehicle protocols and the responsibilities of officers driving under blue-light conditions, particularly in areas with pedestrian crossings.
The IOPC and Nottinghamshire Police continue to urge anyone who may have witnessed the incident or has relevant dashcam footage from the area on December 19, 2023, to come forward.
