From LADbible · · 1m 20s
Police Sacked for Excessive Force on Deceased Amputee
Two police officers were dismissed after using excessive force on a 92-year-old amputee who later died.
In brief
Two police officers were dismissed after using excessive force on a 92-year-old amputee who later died. PCs Stephen Smith and Rachel Comotto were sacked for excessive force after tasing and pepper-spraying a 92-year-old amputee who died 22 days later from complications. Originally reported by LADbible.
Police Officers Sacked
Two police officers were dismissed for using excessive force on a 92-year-old amputee who later died.
Incident at Care Home
PCs Stephen Smith and Rachel Comotto responded to a care home in St Leonards, East Sussex on June 21 2022 after a report of resident Donald Burgess holding a knife.
Forced Actions on Donald
Police bodycam footage showed officers using Pava spray, striking with a baton, and tasing Donald who was wheelchair-bound and holding a cutlery knife.
IOPC Ruling
The Independent Office for Police Conduct ruled both officers used excessive force within a minute-and-a-half of entering the room.
Facebook Comment
PC Comotto shared a Facebook comment saying, 'We all know what happens in care homes' with a lightning bolt emoji after the incident.
“We all know what happens in care homes”
Donald's Death
Donald was hospitalized after the incident, contracted Covid-19, and died 22 days later at age 93.
Consequences
Both officers were banned from policing and their actions damaged public trust in law enforcement.
What matters most
PCs Stephen Smith and Rachel Comotto were sacked for excessive force after tasing and pepper-spraying a 92-year-old amputee who died 22 days later from complications.
