A Metropolitan Police officer is facing serious allegations after reportedly tasering a man who fell from a building, leaving him with life-altering injuries. PC Liam Newman, 30, is set to appear at Westminster Magistrates' Court on November 20, charged with grievous bodily harm (GBH) following the incident.
The charges stem from events on April 24, 2022, when PC Newman was pursuing a 61-year-old man on foot. During the chase, the suspect climbed onto a shed-like structure on Chigwell Road, Woodford Green, before falling after being tasered by the officer. The Independent Office for Police Conduct (IOPC) stated this resulted in the man suffering life-changing injuries.
The IOPC's inquiry commenced with mandatory protocols following the serious injury notification from the police. After extensive investigations over the course of the following year, the agency submitted its findings to the Crown Prosecution Service (CPS), which later approved the charge against Newman.
Chief Superintendent Stuart Bell, who is responsible for policing the area, expressed his awareness of the public concern surrounding the incident. He stressed the importance of maintaining public confidence and trust, which hinges on the thorough investigation of such matters. Following the establishment of criminal proceedings, Chief Supt Bell noted the need for the case’s circumstances to be disclosed openly during the court hearings.
The nature of the incident raises significant questions about police conduct and the usage of tasers under certain circumstances. Taser use, particularly during the apprehension of suspects, is often met with scrutiny and requires comprehensive assessment to ascertain compliance with policing standards and community safety protocols.
Following the incident, calls for greater oversight of police actions and clearer guidelines for officers utilizing such tools are likely to amplify, especially considering the significant injuries sustained by the 61-year-old man.
This case forms part of broader discussions about accountability within the Metropolitan Police, with various recent incidents sparking debate over police practices and the trust placed within them by communities. With the court date approaching, many await the developments of what could be pivotal moments for public confidence and accountability within law enforcement practices.
Newman remains on duty pending the court's deliberation, which has sparked both support and criticism from various community stakeholders and police oversight bodies. The outcome of this case may potentially influence policies surrounding the use of tasers and the approach to police-community interactions moving forward.
