In a recent court ruling in Sydney, Australia, a police officer was convicted of manslaughter for using a Taser on a 95-year-old nursing home resident. The officer, identified as Kristian James Samuel White, was found guilty after a 20-hour jury deliberation. White, who is currently out on bail, faces a potential prison sentence of up to 25 years.
The incident occurred when Clare Nowland, a great-grandmother with dementia who used a walker, refused to drop a steak knife she was holding. White discharged his Taser at her, causing Nowland to fall backward. Unfortunately, Nowland passed away a week later in the hospital. Police initially stated that Nowland's fatal injuries resulted from hitting her head on the floor rather than directly from the Taser's electric shock.
Following the verdict, NSW Police Commissioner Karen Webb expressed regret over the tragic outcome and extended her deepest condolences to Nowland's family. White's employment status is now under review, and the police department is undergoing legal procedures in response to the court's decision.
During the trial, video evidence revealed White's statement of “nah, bugger it” before using the Taser, despite officers repeatedly instructing Nowland to drop the knife. White defended his actions by claiming he perceived the knife-wielding Nowland as a threat, based on his training.
However, the jury dismissed White's argument that his use of the Taser was justified, considering Nowland's frail stature. The prosecution contended that White's actions were excessive and unnecessary, sparking a broader discussion on the appropriate use of Tasers by law enforcement in the state.
Nowland, a resident of Yallambee Lodge in Cooma, left behind a large family, including eight children, 24 grandchildren, and 31 great-grandchildren. The case has raised significant concerns about police conduct and the handling of vulnerable individuals in nursing homes.
