Horrifying footage has emerged of a late police officer accused of striking a young football fan in the head.
The police force confirmed on February 15 that PC Billy Sampson, who was due to stand trial over attacking a teenage football fan, was found dead.
The late South Yorkshire Police officer pleaded not guilty to unlawfully and maliciously wounding a boy, 16, following a match between Barnsley and Sheffield Wednesday in 2020. He was due to face trial in March 2022, Yorkshire Live reports.
PC Sampson was charged after the boy was injured after being hit with a baton in Barnsley following a game between Barnsley and Sheffield Wednesday at Oakwell Stadium, Barnsley, on February 8, 2020.
Footage and images of PC Sampson surfaced online, shared by the news agency YappApp.
Video footage appears to show a young fan being bludgeoned in the head by a police officer whilst onlookers call out in shock.
Blood can then be seen pouring out of the fan's head.
A spokesperson for South Yorkshire Police said: “We are incredibly saddened by news of Billy’s death.
“Our thoughts remain with Billy’s family and loved ones and they will be offered our full support.”
Chief Superintendent Match Commander Sarah Poolman confirmed that a "full, open investigation" would take place.
PC Sampson was charged after the Independent Office for Police Conduct (IOPC) completed its investigation and referred a file of evidence to the Crown Prosecution Service (CPS).
PC Sampson pleaded not guilty at a hearing in Leeds Crown Court and a provisional date for the trial was set for March 7.
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