💨 Abstract

A police officer, PC Stephen Smith, is on trial for allegedly using excessive force against a 92-year-old amputee, Donald Burgess, who threatened staff with a knife at a care home. Smith sprayed Burgess with pepper spray and struck him with a baton, claiming he didn't realize Burgess was disabled. Burgess was hospitalized and later died from coronavirus. Smith's defense argues his actions were consistent with police training and the perceived threat.

Courtesy: Katie Boyden