Police defend video of PSO 'slapping' 11-year-old boy

Footage has emerged of a Victoria Police Protective Service Officer slapping an 11-year-old boy, sparking online debate while the state's police boss has defended the officer's action.

Two protective service officers, who patrol public areas during peak hours, were called to Noble Park in Melbourne, responding to reports the youngster was allegedly responsible for a recently committed crime in the area.

They attempted to restrain the boy who allegedly swore and shouted racial slurs at them on Australia Day, before he turned and spat at the closest officer who immediately retaliated by slapping the boy.

Response to 11-year-old boy being slapped

The confronting video ignited a lot of social media commentary when Melbourne-based radio station 3AW shared it online. Despite contrasting opinions on the matter, many believed the behaviour of the officer was justified.

"Kids of today have no respect at all. Very disrespectful," one wrote.

"He has assaulted her! She has a right to defend herself. She showed great restraint. Well done to these officers," another shared.

3AW radio presenter Neil Mitchell invited Chief Commissioner of Victoria Police, Shane Patton on to his show to discuss the incident. The commissioner challenged labelling the action as a slap, describing it as a "layman term" and said a "redirection strike" was a more accurate description of the action.

Comm Patton explained the "redirection strike" was in fact an effective method to stop the boy from spitting on the officer again, and noted the action of spitting can be legally deemed as assault. When probed for further information by the host, he did not divulge further details on whether or not the 11-year-old boy would be subject to assault charges in this case.

He continued to say the protective service officer in the spotlight had submitted a "use of force" document and was being transparent with authorities about the interaction. “We’re comfortable with what has been done in relation to this matter,” Comm Patton said.

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Despite overwhelming support for the officer's response to being spat on, not everyone shared this view, with people disapproving of the actions of the authoritative figure and the stance taken by the police force.

"Saying this was the correct amount of force used sets a dangerous precedent for the future of what is acceptable and unacceptable," one person said.

"We need genuine police oversight with integrity," another wrote.

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