The Police Service of Northern Ireland (PSNI) has accepted a recommendation to ensure each district has wheelchair access vehicles for transporting disabled people into custody, following an investigation by the Police Ombudsman.

The investigation stemmed from a complaint about an incident at a home in County Down in December 2024, where police failed to provide a vehicle suitable for a wheelchair user. The complainant also made six other allegations regarding conduct during the arrest.

Ombudsman investigators examined all seven allegations using body-worn video footage and other evidence. They found that a caution was given, the complainant manoeuvred himself into the vehicle unassisted after being carried by officers, and no injury occurred. There was no evidence of mocking or insensitivity towards his disability, and while the body-worn camera was off during a clothing change, an officer was present outside the room as required.

The investigation also confirmed that officers are not permitted to administer medication, so no ethical breach occurred there. A healthcare practitioner later deemed the complainant unfit for detention because his physical needs could not be met in custody, and he was returned home.

No individual officer misconduct was found, but the investigation highlighted systemic shortcomings in facilities and transport for wheelchair users. Consequently, the Ombudsman recommended that PSNI procure wheelchair-friendly vehicles or fit suitable ramps to cell vans in each district.

Senior Investigations Officer Martin McCaffery stated that the recommendation reflects the need to improve disability access to protect the rights and dignity of disabled individuals. The PSNI has accepted this recommendation and will explore implementation.