Merseyside Police have publicly criticised a viral social media video showing the arrest of a 13-year-old boy in Kirkby, claiming the footage lacks full context and misrepresents the incident. The video, filmed in Lapford Crescent, Northwood, appears to show an officer striking the youth as he struggles in the back of a police car.
The footage has sparked widespread debate online about police conduct, but Merseyside Police insist that the clip shows only “half the story,” prompting a formal internal review.
The Incident: Youths Arrested for Vandalism
Officers were called to Lapford Crescent at approximately 5:45pm on Saturday following reports that a group of youths had been vandalising a shed roof and throwing wooden debris. Police stated that the group had been linked to previous acts of criminal damage in the area.
Two males, aged 13 and 14, were arrested on suspicion of criminal damage, public order offences, and obstruction of police officers. Both were later conditionally bailed following interviews.
Police claim that during the arrest, the 13-year-old resisted violently inside the police vehicle, complicating the officers’ efforts to safely detain him. The viral footage shows only a portion of this struggle, leading to what the force calls an “incomplete and potentially misleading” portrayal of events.
Force Responds to Video Criticism
Inspector James Watson, speaking on behalf of Merseyside Police, said:
“A small clip doesn’t always show the full context of an incident. Officers are expected to act with professionalism and restraint, but policing can involve split-second decisions under challenging circumstances.
The force confirmed that a formal complaint has been lodged and the Professional Standards Department is investigating whether the officer’s use of force was proportionate.
Merseyside Police stressed that officers are held to the highest standards of professional conduct and pledged that any misconduct identified will result in appropriate disciplinary action.
Tackling Anti-Social Behaviour in Kirkby
The arrests form part of broader efforts to address a rise in anti-social behaviour across Kirkby. In March, police implemented a Section 34 Dispersal Order in Kirkby Town Centre to deal with reports of intimidation and vandalism.
Inspector Watson praised local residents for reporting the incident:
“We take all reports of anti-social behaviour extremely seriously. Our priority is to ensure the safety of all residents and to engage with young people before issues escalate.”
The Merseyside Youth Commission’s 2024 survey highlighted anti-social behaviour as a major concern for Kirkby residents, second only to knife crime.
The Role of Social Media
The controversy highlights how social media influences public perceptions of policing. A 2024 College of Policing study revealed that while most Britons support body-worn cameras, nearly half admit they often judge incidents based on incomplete or edited footage circulating online.
Merseyside Police encouraged the public to await the outcome of the official investigation rather than rushing to judgment based on short clips.
Residents with concerns, or information about anti-social behaviour in Kirkby, are urged to contact the force via social media (@MerPolCC) or anonymously through Crimestoppers at 0800 555 111.
More from: Merseyside Police · UK Regional News
