A Greater Manchester Police officer has been jailed for 16 months after using a taser multiple times on a handcuffed man at Manchester Airport.
PC Jonathan Boardman, 40, was found guilty of assault occasioning actual bodily harm following an incident in May 2022. The shocking assault was captured on body-worn camera footage, which showed Boardman deploying his taser three times on the restrained suspect.
Violent Incident at Airport Arrivals
The court heard how Boardman and a colleague were escorting the man through the airport's arrivals area when the assault occurred. Despite being handcuffed with his arms behind his back, the officer proceeded to taser the man - once in the back and twice in the chest.
Liverpool Crown Court was told the victim had been detained for being drunk and disorderly on a flight, but posed no physical threat to officers at the time of the assault.
Bodycam Footage Seals Officer's Fate
Prosecutors described the footage as "difficult viewing," showing Boardman using "excessive and unlawful force." Judge David Aubrey KC condemned the officer's actions, stating they amounted to "gratuitous degradation" of the victim.
The judge noted that Boardman, an officer with 18 years' service, had committed a "gross breach of trust" and his actions could undermine public confidence in policing.
Police Force Responds to Sentencing
Greater Manchester Police confirmed Boardman would now face misconduct proceedings. A force spokesperson stated: "We expect the highest standards of professionalism from our officers. When these standards aren't met, we take appropriate action."
The case highlights ongoing concerns about police use of force in the UK, particularly involving taser deployment on restrained individuals.
