A police officer was charged with assaulting a 95-year-old great grandmother in her NSW care facility. She later died.
The incident occurred on May 17 at the Yallambee Lodge in Cooma. The woman, named Clare Nowland, had dementia and was found with a steak knife by staff members.
More details about the incident have emerged. According to a report by the Daily Telegraph, an investigation has been carried out regarding the circumstances that led to the tasing of Nowland.
There were also paramedics and a female acting sergeant at the scene when the incident occurred. They were trying to get Nowland to surrender the steak knife.
The woman, who was using her walking stick, started to move toward the officers while still holding the knife.
According to the report, a female sergeant said she could take the knife away from Nowland. Sen Const White then reportedly started to taser the woman as a warning.
It’s believed that after failing to get the taser to work, the officer allegedly said “No, bugger it” and fired it.
Nowland then allegedly fell and hit her head on the concrete floor, which resulted in a skull fracture.
She was later taken to the Cooma Hospital. Her relatives were by her side as she underwent end-of-life treatment.
A week after the incident, Ms. Nowland died. Sen Const White was charged with various assault and reckless conduct offenses.
He will appear in court on July 5. The 33 year old officer has been suspended with full pay.