The Tragic Incident Involving a 95-Year-Old Woman and a Police Officer
A NSW police officer, Senior Constable Kristian James Samuel White, has been found guilty of manslaughter after fatally tasering a 95-year-old woman with dementia symptoms. The incident took place in a treatment room at Yallambee Lodge aged-care home in Cooma, NSW, sparking outrage and shock across the community.
The Fatal Encounter
On May 17 last year, Senior Constable White discharged his stun gun at Clare Nowland, a great-grandmother, despite her advanced age and vulnerable state. In a video presented during his trial at the NSW Supreme Court, the officer was heard callously saying “nah, bugger it” before firing at Nowland in the torso.
- Clare Nowland, who was holding a steak knife at the time, fell backwards and hit her head.
- She tragically passed away a week later in the hospital, leaving behind a grieving family and community.
The Court Verdict and Legal Arguments
After an eight-day trial and 20 hours of deliberation, a 12-person jury delivered a guilty verdict of manslaughter against Senior Constable White. The Crown prosecutor, Brett Hatfield SC, successfully argued that White’s actions were criminally negligent and constituted an unlawful and dangerous act that led to Nowland’s death.
- The jury rejected the defense’s claim that the taser use was a proportionate response to the perceived threat posed by Nowland.
Implications and Future Updates
This case has raised serious questions about police conduct, especially when dealing with vulnerable individuals such as the elderly and those with cognitive impairments. As the story continues to develop, updates will be provided to shed light on the legal proceedings and potential sentencing for Senior Constable White.
Stay tuned for the latest updates on this tragic incident and follow SBS News for comprehensive coverage.
FAQs
1. What led to the fatal tasering of Clare Nowland?
Senior Constable Kristian James Samuel White discharged his stun gun at Clare Nowland, a 95-year-old woman with dementia symptoms, during an encounter at an aged-care home in Cooma, NSW.
2. What was the jury’s verdict in the trial of Senior Constable White?
After deliberating for 20 hours, the jury found Senior Constable White guilty of manslaughter in relation to Clare Nowland’s death.