The original forensic examination was carried out by a pathologist, Dr. Freddy Patel who has since been struck off. At a recent medical tribunal, it was concluded that he had acted "with deficient professional performance" in his examination.At his Medical Practitioners Tribunal Service, it was concluded that his work was deficient, and he was ruled unfit to practice. A review of his report into the death of Mr. Tomlinson identified 68 separate failings.
So, Freddy Patel, since struck off for being deficient and lacking professionalism, concluded it was heart failure. A second post mortem, carried out by another pathologist, noted none of the usual evidence of tissue damage typical of a heart attack. On the other hand, there was significant bruising of the liver, and given Mr. Tomlinsons history of alcohol abuse and cirrhosis, could very well have led to a catastrophic haemorrhage consequent to hitting the ground following the strike and the push.
Given that Freddy Patels evidence is discredited, it seems far more credible to me to accept the findings of the second post mortem and reject the findings from Dr. Patels initial report.
I think PC Harwood is a very lucky man. I also think that the Met need to take a good hard look at their recruitment screening process, given the past history of violence surrounding this officer.
As to the Police closing ranks - of course they do. There have been many examples over the years to show this.They are not unusual in this regard - there have been cases of doctors closing ranks for example - but given their role in society, in is more important that they exercise the very highest standards of truthfulness and transparency.
I believe he deserves some jail time, both to punish the crime, and to send out a message that putting on a uniform does not give you free reign to exercise your own predeliction for violence.