UPDATE: Since our article was published, Mr Shaw’s allegations against Inspector Dean O’Connor have been fully investigated by Dorset Police. Witness statements were taken from those present at the scene, as well as Mr Shaw and Inspector O’Connor, who denied the allegations. The Dorset Police investigation concluded that the force Inspector O’Connor used was reasonable, proportionate and necessary in order to detain Mr Shaw. Accordingly, Mr Shaw’s complaint was not upheld and no further action was taken.

Dorset Police are investigating claims that a senior officer allegedly assaulted a valet parking driver at Heathrow airport.

Inspector Dean O’Connor, of Bournemouth police, is alleged to have accused the 65-year-old driver of stealing his car after it was not delivered over an hour after his return from holiday on October 31.

The driver, Colin Shaw – who suffered a stroke last year – claims the inspector then arrested him and dragged him across the floor, slamming him against a wall like a “rag doll”.

In a statement to the Daily Echo a Dorset Police spokesman said: “On Sunday, October 31, an incident occurred at Heathrow airport. One of the parties involved was an off-duty Dorset police officer.

“At the time the officer reported the matter to the Metropolitan Police who attended the incident. Officers attending determined that no criminal offences had been committed.

“Following the incident another person complained about the conduct of the off-duty officer.

“Because he was a Dorset officer, the matter was referred to Dorset Police Professional Standards Department to investigate.

“That investigation is ongoing and it would be inappropriate to comment further at this stage.”

Speaking to a national newspaper Mr Shaw said: “The pain in the side of my face was excruciating when he swung me onto the wall. But he did it twice. He was so strong. I was like a rag doll.

“Then he dragged me five or six feet across the floor and bashed me into the glass window in the same way.

“I was five storeys up, and when he did it again I thought I was dead.”

Mr Shaw claimed the inspector grabbed him around the neck and forced him to the ground.

“I was terrified when he told me, ‘I’m really going to hurt you’,” said Mr Shaw. “I was screaming in agony but he ignored me until suddenly my colleague arrived with the keys to his car and he finally let me go.

“I was in terrible pain all over and my phone was shattered under me. It was a completely unprovoked attack.”