Two north London Metropolitan Police officers have been dismissed without notice after they punched and kicked a 14-year-old boy during his arrest.

The incident took place two years ago when the officers responded to reports of fighting in Finsbury Park.

PC Alexei Zalesskiy and PC Conor Ryan were also found to have lied about the incident in their statements after the arrest.

The officers were dismissed at a gross misconduct hearing yesterday (May 10) following an investigation by the Independent Office for Police Conduct (IOPC).

In April 2021, officers were called to Finsbury Park following reports of fighting in which a knife had been seen.

Police carried out a number of stop and searches on a group of young people but no knife was found.

During attempts to disperse the group, one boy became agitated at being pushed by officers.

The 14-year-old allegedly started shouting at police and spat in an officer’s face. He then ran from the officers who chased him on foot to arrest him.

The boy was detained in Wilberforce Road. He was placed in handcuffs and arrested on suspicion of assaulting an emergency worker and a public order offence.

No charges were ever brought against the 14-year-old and no further action was taken.

During the arrest, PC Zalesskiy punched the boy at least once. PC Ryan kicked him in the neck and head area, and struck him in the thigh with his knee.

Evidence gathered by IOPC investigators included police body worn video and CCTV which showed the officers punching and kicking the boy.

Investigators also found evidence that the officers had lied in their statements immediately following the incident, dishonestly claiming they believed the boy was going to spit at PC Zalesskiy for a second time.

The IOPC eventually concluded that there was a case to answer for gross misconduct against both officers and an indication they may have committed assault by beating.

At the end of the investigation, the IPOC passed a file to the Crown Prosecution Service which decided not to authorise charges.

At the misconduct hearing yesterday it was determined that he officers had breached police standards of professional behaviour for use of force and honesty and integrity.

IOPC Director Amanda Rowe said: "The force used on this child was neither reasonable nor proportionate in the circumstances.

“Their dismissals send a strong message that there will be serious consequences for police officers who use gratuitous violence and are dishonest about their actions.

"Both officers will also be added to the police barred list, preventing them from future employment with any police service."