Polish courts dismiss investigations into police use of force in activist injury and fatality

A 19‑year‑old climate activist suffered a broken left hand during a 2020 protest in Warsaw. The investigation into the police officer’s use of a leverage device was closed a second time after activist lawyer Roman Giertych did not file an appeal. Prosecutors stated the injury resulted from a combination of forces and deemed the officer’s actions appropriate.

In October 2025, 31‑year‑old Pawęl Pułączewski died following a police raid on his apartment in Inowrocław. Body‑camera footage captured him shouting “help” and “I can’t breathe.” While police claimed no taser was used, family counsel alleges a taser discharge is shown on video. The subsequent investigation was also dismissed, a decision the family’s lawyer contests, pointing to inconsistencies in the official report and handling of medical assistance.

Both cases highlight ongoing controversy over police conduct and the closing of related criminal investigations in Poland.