Two Metropolitan Police officers are facing potential dismissal after a disciplinary panel heard allegations they used excessive force when deploying a Taser on a 90-year-old man outside the Old Bailey.
The hearing, which began on Monday, centres on an incident that occurred near London's Central Criminal Court where the elderly man was reportedly subjected to multiple Taser discharges. The Independent Office for Police Conduct (IOPC) investigated the encounter before referring the case for misconduct proceedings.
Serious Allegations of Excessive Force
According to evidence presented to the panel, the officers responded to reports of a disturbance in the vicinity of the historic courthouse. The confrontation escalated dramatically when the officers allegedly deployed their conducted energy devices against the nonagenarian.
Police regulations state that Tasers should only be used when absolutely necessary and as a last resort when facing violence or threats of violence. The hearing will determine whether the officers breached professional standards of behaviour during this controversial incident.
Accountability in Police Use of Force
This case comes amid growing public scrutiny of police tactics and use of force across the UK. The Metropolitan Police, Britain's largest police force, has faced increasing pressure to ensure officers are properly trained in de-escalation techniques and proportionate response.
The misconduct hearing represents a significant test for police accountability mechanisms. If found guilty of gross misconduct, both officers could be removed from their positions within the force.
The panel is expected to hear testimony from multiple witnesses, including police colleagues and use-of-force experts, before reaching its determination on whether the Taser deployment was justified given the circumstances.
