Summary
A 92-year-old man in a wheelchair was sprayed with pepper spray and Tasered by police officers after he did not drop a butter knife at a care home. The officers involved deny charges of using excessive force. The incident led to a court case where it was stated that the force used was not necessary.
Key Facts
- The incident happened at a care home in St Leonards-on-Sea, East Sussex.
- Police were called on June 21, 2022, when staff could not get Donald Burgess to hand over the knife.
- PC Stephen Smith used a nearly full can of pepper spray on Mr. Burgess.
- PC Rachel Comotto used a Taser on Mr. Burgess.
- Mr. Burgess was a 92-year-old amputee with multiple health issues, including diabetes.
- The court heard Mr. Burgess may have been confused due to a urinary tract infection.
- The officers were accused of assault by using unnecessary force.
- The court case is ongoing, and both officers deny the charges.
