No verdict again on race accused Pc (From Salisbury Journal)

No verdict again on race accused Pc

2:01pm Thursday 25th October 2012 in National News © Press Association 2013

A jury has failed to reach a verdict in the retrial of a Metropolitan Police constable accused of racially abusing a suspect following last year's August riots.

A mobile phone recording heard Pc Alex MacFarlane, 53, tell 22-year-old Mauro Demetrio: "The problem with you is you'll always be a n*****."

He also said: "Be proud of who you are. Don't hide behind your black skin."

The conversation took place after Mr Demetrio was arrested on suspicion of drink or drug-driving and was taken to Forest Gate police station, east London, on August 11 last year.

Southwark Crown Court in London heard MacFarlane admit to using the word "n*****" but said it was not intended as a racist insult. He denied a charge of racially aggravated intentional harassment.

The jury of five women and seven men told Judge Gledhill they could not agree on a verdict after being told they could return a majority decision.

The retrial was ordered after a jury failed to reach a verdict in the case last week.