In a significant legal ruling, 34-year-old Officer Kristian White has been found guilty of manslaughter for his actions that resulted in the death of 95-year-old Clare Nowland, who displayed symptoms of dementia. The incident occurred at Yallambee Lodge, a care home in Cooma, on May 17, 2023, when Nowland was discovered wandering with a kitchen knife.
Officer Found Guilty of Manslaughter for Taser Incident Involving 95-Year-Old Woman
Officer Found Guilty of Manslaughter for Taser Incident Involving 95-Year-Old Woman
A police officer in Australia has been convicted of manslaughter after Taser incident that led to a 95-year-old woman's death.
White's defense claimed his use of force was justified, arguing that he feared a violent confrontation was imminent. However, prosecutors contended that the elderly woman, who weighed less than 48 kg (105 lbs) and relied on a walker, posed little risk. Evidence presented during the trial highlighted that White deployed the Taser just three minutes after arriving at the scene, without allowing time for alternative de-escalation methods.
The incident showed the moment when Nowland, who was exhibiting cognitive decline but was not formally diagnosed with dementia, was confronted by officers. Video footage revealed her slowly moving forward with the knife before White, expressing impatience, fired the Taser, causing her to fall and eventually suffer a fatal brain injury.
Family members of Mrs. Nowland expressed gratitude to the legal system for acknowledging the unjustness of her death, emphasizing their need for privacy during this time. NSW Police Commissioner Karen Webb stated the department is reviewing its Taser policies and acknowledged the tragedy of the situation, while White awaits sentencing on bail.
The incident showed the moment when Nowland, who was exhibiting cognitive decline but was not formally diagnosed with dementia, was confronted by officers. Video footage revealed her slowly moving forward with the knife before White, expressing impatience, fired the Taser, causing her to fall and eventually suffer a fatal brain injury.
Family members of Mrs. Nowland expressed gratitude to the legal system for acknowledging the unjustness of her death, emphasizing their need for privacy during this time. NSW Police Commissioner Karen Webb stated the department is reviewing its Taser policies and acknowledged the tragedy of the situation, while White awaits sentencing on bail.
