A Polish court sentenced two former police officers to prison for their roles in the 2023 death of a 27-year-old man in Inowrocław.
Initial Intervention and Arrest
In May of last year, officers responded to a call regarding a 27-year-old man causing disturbances at an apartment on Błażka Street in Inowrocław. Neighbors had reported the man was destroying property and throwing furniture from a window.
Police attempted to subdue the man, using a taser multiple times. Michał Sylwestruk lost consciousness, prompting officers to call for an ambulance. He later died in hospital.
Court Ruling and Sentencing
The trial of Przemysław D. and Radosław P. began on April 17, 2025, in Bydgoszcz, held behind closed doors, including the reading of the indictment. Przemysław D. received a seven-year prison sentence, while Radosław P. was sentenced to six years.
Both former officers were also banned from working as police officers for ten years. The verdict is subject to appeal.
Key Evidence: Bodycam Footage
Crucial evidence in the case consisted of footage from the officers’ body-worn cameras. The prosecutor’s office determined early in the investigation that the officers had exceeded their authority, acted unlawfully, and violated regulations regarding the use of force.
Following the man’s restraint, they used a taser and engaged in violence against the 27-year-old.
Prosecutor’s Statement and Qualification of the Crime
“After reviewing the camera recordings, autopsy results, and expert opinions on police intervention tactics, the incident was classified as cruel treatment of a person legally deprived of liberty, which unintentionally led to death,” stated Agnieszka Adamska-Okońska of the Bydgoszcz District Prosecutor’s Office.
Public Release of Footage and Family Reaction
The bodycam footage was released in a report by Polsat television. The deceased man’s father disputes the prosecutor’s findings, claiming it was premeditated murder and vowing to prove it, calling the officers “killers in police uniforms.”
