A police officer in Australia has been found guilty of manslaughter after using a taser on a 95-year-old woman, Clare Nowland, at a nursing home in May 2023. The incident sparked widespread outrage and raised questions about the use of force by law enforcement, particularly against vulnerable individuals.
According to reports, Officer Kristian White, 34, used his taser on Nowland after she allegedly refused to drop a serrated steak knife she was holding. However, witnesses testified that Nowland posed little threat and was simply wandering through the facility, engaging with other residents.
The court heard that White had been trained to view anyone wielding a knife as dangerous, but the prosecution argued that his actions were "utterly unnecessary" and violated his duty of care to Nowland. The jury ultimately agreed, finding White guilty of manslaughter after deliberating for around 20 hours over three days.
Nowland's family has welcomed the verdict, but expressed their ongoing pain and grief at losing their loved one. The incident has also sparked calls for reform and stricter guidelines on the use of force by law enforcement, particularly when dealing with vulnerable individuals such as the elderly and those with mental health challenges.
The use of tasers by law enforcement has long been a topic of controversy, with many arguing that they can be deadly and should only be used in extreme circumstances. This case has highlighted the need for police to be trained in de-escalation techniques and to approach situations involving vulnerable individuals with caution and sensitivity .
Officer White is currently on bail pending sentencing and faces up to 25 years in prison. The case has sent shockwaves through the community and has sparked a wider conversation about police accountability and the use of force.
[attachment deleted by admin]