Overview

• Former Dorset Police constable Lorne Castle, dismissed last month for gross misconduct in a January 2024 arrest of a knife-wielding teenager, detained a youth fleeing a Nike store at Castlepoint shopping centre on June 19.
• Castle held the suspected shoplifter on the ground for 15 minutes until officers arrived, with witnesses and ex-colleagues commending his courteous and controlled approach.
• He confirmed that he is appealing the misconduct ruling that led to his dismissal, insisting his actions were in line with public duty and seeking to clear his name.
• Public support surged after the incident, driving a GoFundMe campaign to raise over £120,000 for Castle and his family.
• The episode has reignited debate over police use of force and accountability and highlighted challenges in balancing robust crime prevention with professional standards.