A Metropolitan Police officer is standing trial accused of causing grievous bodily harm after deploying his Taser on a suspected burglar, who subsequently fell from a wall and suffered a life-changing spinal injury.
The Incident in Woodford Green
The case at Southwark Crown Court centres on an event that took place on 24 April 2022 in Woodford Green. PC Liam Newman, the officer in question, was involved in the pursuit of Leonard Sandiford, who was suspected of burglary.
During the chase, PC Newman discharged his conductive energy device, commonly known as a Taser. Body-worn camera footage presented in court captures the moment Mr Sandiford was struck by the weapon and then fell from a garden wall.
Life-Altering Injuries and Legal Arguments
The fall from a height estimated to be between five and six feet resulted in a severe spinal cord injury for Leonard Sandiford. The injury has had permanent consequences, and he now requires the use of a wheelchair.
PC Liam Newman denies the charge of grievous bodily harm. The prosecution's case asserts that his use of force during the incident was both unreasonable and unlawful. They argue the Taser deployment created an obvious and serious risk of a fall from the elevated position.
Ongoing Court Proceedings
The trial continues at Southwark Crown Court, where the jury will have to determine whether the officer's actions constituted a criminal offence. The case highlights ongoing debates around police use of force, proportionality, and the risks associated with deploying Tasers in dynamic situations.
The Metropolitan Police Service will be closely scrutinised as the evidence unfolds. The outcome of this trial could have significant implications for operational guidelines and officer training regarding the use of conducted energy weapons in the UK.
