EIGHT police staff have been cleared of attacking a Bournemouth man in custody and leaving him with a fractured cheekbone.

Daniel James alleged he was ‘slammed’ into the ground and then repeatedly struck with elbows and fists at Madeira Road police station last November 19.

The 20-year-old complained to the Professional Standards Department but the investigator found ‘overwhelming evidence’ that he struggled violently and the use of force was appropriate.

Mr James, of Westbourne, was arrested following an allegation of sexual assault.

He told investigators that the officers planned an attack and that he was left screaming out with pain.

However the report said CCTV footage, which covered the lower half of his body, shows him being restrained for a strip search with no unnecessary use of force.

One officer said Mr James said under his breath ‘666 the sign of the Devil’ several times and appeared to be under the influence of drugs.

Others said he was spitting and biting, demonstrated unusual strength, did not respond to arm locks, and suggested he injured himself thrashing around on the floors.

The report cleared two sergeants, four constables, and two detention officers, of allegations of misconduct.

Mr James’ mother, Lorrain, a hairdresser from Winton, said: “I don’t understand how he could have got two black eyes by being restrained.”

She added: “He is not going to get anywhere if we do appeal, but I think we will on principle.”

A Dorset Police spokesman said: “The complainant has a right to appeal until Friday, July 1.

“It would be inappropriate to comment until this period of appeal has passed.”