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A policeman who hacked and sawed through a suspect's window during a traffic stop committed gross misconduct, an investigation has found.

Footage of PC Joshua Savage aggressively trying to smash the window of the car in September 2016 was widely shared online.

He would have faced the sack but Mr Savage quit the Metropolitan Police service before today's hearing.

In the traffic stop in Camden Mr Savage used a blade on a multi-tool he was carrying to saw through the shattered pane in order to gain access to the car.

(Image: PA)

(Image: @OFFICIALSOSOLID/Twitter) (Image: central news)

The driver, who was not charged with any offence, said he sustained an injury to his eye from the shattered glass.

Today at an Independent Office for Police Conduct (IOPC) hearing it was found that Mr Savage breached police standards relating to use of force by smashing the windscreen without warning and that he also failed to act with self-control when he did so, breaching standards relating to authority, respect and courtesy.

In July 2018 PC Savage was cleared of possession of a bladed article, common assault and criminal damage.

IOPC Director for London, Sal Naseem said: “The police misconduct panel has ruled that PC Savage’s actions amounted to gross misconduct.

(Image: @OFFICIALSOSOLID/Twitter) (Image: @OFFICIALSOSOLID/Twitter)

“From the evidence available, including footage taken by the driver, we were of the opinion that the actions of PC Savage should be tested at a disciplinary hearing and it is disappointing that we had to use our powers to direct the Metropolitan Police to hold this hearing.

"Public confidence in policing requires transparency and accountability.

“We were concerned that, during our investigation, PC Savage told us that Metropolitan Police officers were routinely carrying these types of multi-tools which is against regulation.

(Image: @OFFICIALSOSOLID/Twitter)

"If true, this would be matter for public concern.

"We raised the matter with the force during our investigation and we await its assurance that it has taken action to ensure this is not the case.”