PC cleared of assault after Tasering suspect

A Metropolitan Police officer who Tasered a suspected burglar who fell from a wall and suffered injuries that made him tetraplegic has been cleared of assault.

PC Liam Newman, 31, has been found not guilty of assault occasioning grievous bodily harm following a trial at Southwark Crown Court.

Leonard Sandiford, 61, who now uses a wheelchair, was running away from police in Woodford Green, east London, when he reached a cul-de-sac, climbed on an outbuilding and fell after being Tasered on 24 April 2022, the court heard.

Newman had pleaded not guilty to grievous bodily harm, following an investigation by the Independent Office for Police Conduct (IOPC).

Ch Sup Stuart Bell said: "Our thoughts today are with Mr Sandiford who has been left with life-changing injuries following this tragic incident.

"It is always a matter of huge regret when an individual comes to harm following contact with police and vital that in such circumstances officers be held to the highest level of scrutiny.

"They face challenging situations everyday and have to make difficult decisions in the moment."

Bell said he recognised "the concern caused by incidents of this nature", adding: "We believe that Taser remains a vital tool but will continue to review its use and provide regular training to officers to ensure they are using the tactic appropriately."

The Met said Newman had been on restricted duties since the incident. With the criminal proceedings concluded, the force said it would liaise with the IOPC around misconduct proceedings.

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