Two police officers have denied assaulting a 93-year-old dementia sufferer at a care home in St Leonards-on-Sea, despite reports that they used a Taser, incapacitant spray, handcuffs, and a baton on the elderly man.
The incident occurred on June 21, 2022, at Park Beck care home when Donald Burgess allegedly threatened staff with a knife. Pc Stephen Smith, 50, and Pc Rachel Comotto, 34, appeared at Westminster Magistrates’ Court charged with assault occasioning actual bodily harm.
The court heard that officers used a Taser, incapacitant spray (Pava), handcuffs, and a baton to subdue Mr Burgess, who was subsequently hospitalised. Tragically, he passed away three weeks later.
Pc Comotto denies assault by using the Taser, while Pc Smith denies assault with the spray and baton. Both officers have been granted unconditional bail and are due to face further proceedings at Southwark Crown Court on May 23.
The Independent Office for Police Conduct (IOPC) confirmed that evidence does not directly link the incident to Mr Burgess’s death. Sussex Police voluntarily referred the case for an independent investigation.
Mel Palmer, director of the IOPC, said: “We extend our condolences to Mr Burgess’s family and are committed to a thorough and transparent investigation.”
Mr Burgess’s family remembered him as a devoted husband and kind soul. His cousin, Shirley Fitch, shared that his health declined after the passing of his wife, Ethel, which led to his move into care. Despite his struggles, he remained a beloved and sociable figure in the community.
Originally published by UKNIP.
