Two Metropolitan Police officers have pleaded not guilty to assaulting a man last year.

Sergeant Emily Joshi, from Watford, and Constable Ozan Yelken, from Waltham Abbey, appeared at Westminster Magistrates’ Court on Friday, watched by a packed public gallery.

It is alleged they assaulted Emmanuel Ugborokefe by beating him during a stop-and-search in Wykeham Road in Hendon, north-west London, on December 28 last year, the court heard.

Sgt Joshi and PC Yelken both deny the charge.

Both were released on unconditional bail and are listed to stand trial at City of London Magistrates’ Court on September 29 and 30.

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Watford Observer: Metropolitan Police Sergeant Emily Joshi, leaves Westminster Magistrates' Court in London. Credit: PAMetropolitan Police Sergeant Emily Joshi, leaves Westminster Magistrates' Court in London. Credit: PA

In May, the Metropolitan Police received a complaint alleging that excessive force had been used and the following month the police watchdog, the Independent Office for Police Conduct (IOPC), passed a file of evidence to prosecutors who authorised the charges.

In a statement given ahead of the court appearance, the force said the pair have been placed on restricted duties, which will be reviewed.

It added that the Met’s Directorate of Professional Standards is aware and misconduct matters “will be considered” once criminal proceedings have finished.

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