THE Police and Crime Commissioner for Gloucestershire has questioned the police's handling of a complaint from an amateur photographer who said a traffic officer grabbed his camera and threatened to make his day “a living hell”.

The 26-year-old man was taking pictures of a crash scene near Tesco in Churchdown, Gloucester, on November 19 where an 86-year-old pedestrian later died from her injuries.

A film posted by the photographer on YouTube shows a conversation in which he appears to be threatened and verbally abused by a sergeant at the scene.

An investigation into the way the police handled the incident is now drawing to a close.

“I have only seen the public facing evidence, but it appears the officer swore at a member of the public, follows that up by saying he was lucky not to have been assaulted by the police, is threatened with arrest, mistreatment and a remand in custody”, said Commissioner Martin Surl, who met with Chief Constable Suzette Davenport to discuss the incident.

“I appreciate the work of the police can be very challenging, but no matter what the situation they should deal with the public in a civil and responsible manner at all times.

“It is the responsibility of the Chief Constable to manage complaints against police officers, my role is to hold the police to account. It appears the officer involved has fallen far short of the behaviour expected and required by the Constabulary.

“I hope this incident will not cause the public to lose faith in the good work done every day by the majority of hard working, dedicated officers which is why I have asked for this issue to be dealt-with with the utmost urgency.”

View the video below.