Hundreds turned out last night to pay tribute to a woman who was found dead in her cell four years after she was caught on camera being assaulted by a police officer.
More than 200 people gathered outside Holloway Prison for a candle-lit vigil on honour of Sarah Reed.
The 32-year-old was pinned to the ground and punched in the head at clothes shop Uniqlo in Regent Street following her arrest on suspicion of shoplifting in 2012.
Pc James Kiddie was captured on security footage dragging Ms Reed by the hair and handcuffing her hands behind her back in an attack later described by superiors as casting “a shadow” over the Met Police. He was thrown out the force two years later.
Last month Ms Reed was found unresponsive in her cell at the woman’s prison, sparking an investigation by the Prisons and Probation Ombudsman.
She had been moved there from the secure Maudsley hospital after being charged with causing grievous bodily harm with intent. Her family claim Ms Reed told them her actions were a response to a sexual assault by another patient.
Monday night’s vigil, organised by Ms Reed’s family, took place on the same day as her funeral.
On a Facebook page set up ahead of the event, Mark Williamz wrote: "Peace to all those that were in attendance. This evening was something special. R.I.P #SarahReed”
Andrea Goldring added: I am so touched by how many ppl [people] came out for Sarah. She had a beautiful send off today. Thank you all so much. We are truly touched and humbled!”
