'The thug in police uniform'. (Daily Mail today)

Did he get some sort of pension or payment when he left on 'medical grounds' thereby avoiding a disciplinary hearing? The following week he was re-emplyed as a civilian in the same force! Then he joined Surrey police as a policeman and eventually transferred to the Met. Seems to me he was clearly playing the system. For that officer to say 'we got it wrong' is such an understatement.

Each time we witness a police officer or others in public service literally getting away with murder trust in these services is irreparably damaged . My heart goes out to Mr Tomlinsons family and I hope they are successful in the civil action. The fact he was an alcoholic has been bandied around as if it was an excuse for violence against him. What will the police force now do with this man who hides behind his uniform?

Agree totally with all of above

Typical case of the police closing ranks. He sounds a thoroughly unpleasant violent thug - let's hope he is out of any police force for good now.

I can't understand ths verdict after watching the video. Ian Tomlinson did nothing to warrant this police assault. I hope the family succeeds in their cvil action.

It's been a disgraceful farce. Harwood was guilty as hell as he shouldn't even have been anywhere near where Mr Tomlinson was walking. I know our police do come under fire at times for being heavy handy, but this man is aptly named when called a 'thug'.