In a shocking incident, Australian police used a taser against a 95-year-old woman in a nursing home. Clare Nowland, who is suffering from dementia, was critically injured during the encounter and is now battling for her life.
Two police officers responded to a call at Yallambee Lodge, a nursing home specialising in dementia care after staff reported that Nowland had obtained a steak knife from the kitchen. Paramedics and police engaged in a conversation with Nowland for several minutes, urging her to drop the weapon.
However, when she slowly approached the officers with the knife in hand and using a walker, one of the officers decided to use his taser. The elderly woman fell backwards, striking her head on the ground, and is now in critical condition.
The incident triggers the debate around the use of tasers in policing
The incident has reignited the debate surrounding the use of taser-brand conducted energy devices, commonly known as stun guns, by New South Wales state police. While tasers are intended to be a less lethal option to firearms, their use has occasionally resulted in serious injuries or even deaths.
This case underscores the importance of carefully evaluating when and how Tasers are deployed, particularly when dealing with elderly or vulnerable individuals.
Authorities refrain from commenting on excessive force
Assistant Commissioner Peter Cotter, in response to inquiries, refrained from commenting on whether the officer’s use of the Taser was excessive force. Cotter emphasised the ongoing internal investigation into the matter and the need for transparency.
The officer involved has been placed on leave pending a level 1 critical incident investigation, indicating the seriousness of the case. The homicide squad is also involved, suggesting that criminal charges could be considered if warranted.
Police brutality in Australia is on the rise, which resulted in the dismissal of 17 police officers in the Australian state of Victoria last year. Meanwhile, another 31 officers resigned when their cases were being heard.
Victoria’s police chief commissioner, Shane Patton, warned his police force earlier this year after a sharp increase in disciplinary hearings. He said, “I don’t know how you get to go out and lock someone up for being a drug user if you’re on the gear yourself,” while addressing Victoria’s police force.
