Hampshire Police face inspection following Henry Nowak murder

An inspection has been launched into Hampshire Police following the murder of 18-year-old university student Henry Nowak. The investigation by His Majesty’s Inspectorate of Constabulary and Fire & Rescue Service (HMICFRS) was requested by Police and Crime Commissioner Donna Jones to evaluate how the force responds to incidents of serious violence.

The inspection will assess the “end-to-end process,” including call-handling, dispatch, and initial attendance at violent incidents. It will specifically examine decision-making, risk assessment training, and how the organization supports officers in making impartial judgments, particularly when immediate first aid is required. The review will also cover the force's culture and its handling of allegations regarding racially aggravated assaults.

The case follows the conviction of Vickrum Digwa, who received a life sentence with a minimum of 21 years for the murder of Nowak. Public outcry and protests were triggered by body-worn video footage showing Nowak being placed in handcuffs moments before losing consciousness and dying. Donna Jones stated that the inspection aims to ensure the public has confidence in the police and that the family receives the answers they deserve.