"Our thoughts today are with Mr Sandiford who has been left with life-changing injuries following this tragic incident. It is always a matter of huge regret when an individual comes to harm following contact with police and vital that in such circumstances officers be held to the highest level of scrutiny. They face challenging situations everyday and have to make difficult decisions in the moment."
"Leonard Sandiford, who now uses a wheelchair, was running away from police in Woodford Green, east London, when he reached a cul-de-sac, climbed on an outbuilding and fell after being Tasered on 24 April 2022, the court heard. We believe that Taser remains a vital tool but will continue to review its use and provide regular training to officers to ensure they are using the tactic appropriately."
PC Liam Newman, 31, was found not guilty of assault occasioning grievous bodily harm at Southwark Crown Court. Leonard Sandiford, now tetraplegic and using a wheelchair, fell from an outbuilding after being Tasered while fleeing police in Woodford Green on 24 April 2022. Newman had pleaded not guilty and was investigated by the Independent Office for Police Conduct. Newman has been on restricted duties since the incident. The Metropolitan Police said it will liaise with the IOPC about possible misconduct proceedings now the criminal case is concluded. Ch Supt Stuart Bell expressed regret, stressed scrutiny of such incidents, and defended continued Taser use with ongoing review and training.
Read at www.bbc.com
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