What's happened
Senior Constable Kristian James Samuel White has been dismissed from the NSW Police Force following his manslaughter conviction for the death of 95-year-old Clare Nowland, who was Tasered while holding a knife. The incident occurred in May 2023, leading to significant discussions on police use of Tasers.
Why it matters
What the papers say
According to SBS, Senior Constable Kristian James Samuel White was found guilty of manslaughter after Taser use against Clare Nowland, who was holding a knife. The Independent highlighted the jury's rejection of White's defense that his actions were proportionate to the threat posed by Nowland, emphasizing the excessive nature of the Taser use. AP News noted that the case has led to a high-level internal investigation into police practices regarding Tasers, indicating a potential shift in policy. The coverage across these sources illustrates a consensus on the need for reform in police use of force, particularly in sensitive situations involving vulnerable individuals.
How we got here
The incident took place on May 17, 2023, when Clare Nowland, a resident of Yallambee Lodge nursing home, brandished a knife. White's use of a Taser resulted in her falling and suffering fatal injuries, leading to his trial and subsequent conviction for manslaughter.
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