Home / Crime and Justice / Officer's 'Distraction' Punch Before Custody Death Questioned
Officer's 'Distraction' Punch Before Custody Death Questioned
6 Dec, 2025
Summary
- Officer admitted punching a man twice to 'distract' him before his death.
- The man, Robert Gracey, became unresponsive hours after being restrained.
- His wife described the treatment of her husband as 'heartbreaking'.
An inquest is examining the circumstances surrounding the death of Robert Gracey, who passed away on September 29, 2021. Mr. Gracey died at Lincoln County Hospital hours after being restrained by officers and placed in a police van.
During the proceedings, retired officer Garry Firth admitted to punching Mr. Gracey twice, stating the action was intended to "distract" him. Mr. Firth claimed Mr. Gracey was behaving aggressively and resisting arrest, prompting the use of force, including standing on his leg to restrain him.
Body-worn camera footage showed officers restraining Mr. Gracey. His wife, Zoe Gracey, found it "heartbreaking" to witness officers calling her husband names and using violence. The inquest continues to explore the events leading up to Mr. Gracey's death.
