Julian Cole: Family Settles Police Claim for £1.2 Million

Julian Cole's family has secured a £1.2 million settlement from Bedfordshire Police after officers provided false accounts of an incident that left Cole paralyzed.

In 2013, Cole, then 19, suffered a broken neck and spinal cord injury following an altercation outside Elements nightclub in Bedford. The out-of-court agreement, confirmed by the High Court, comes despite the force not admitting liability.

The incident occurred when Cole, a University of Bedfordshire freshman, was denied re-entry and a refund after being removed from the club. Subsequently, three officers were dismissed for falsely stating Cole walked to the police van, contrary to CCTV evidence depicting him being carried, unable to walk.

During the settlement hearing, Cole's mother cried as their lawyer highlighted the deal's significance in providing enhanced care and support. A police representative apologized in 2020, and the force has been contacted for further comments.