Police Officer Tasered Man, Causing Paralysis

United Kingdom — Metropolitan Police Constable Liam Newman is on trial at Southwark Crown Court, accused of grievous bodily harm against Leonard Sandiford. The prosecution alleges that Newman tasered Sandiford, who was running away and posed no threat, causing him to fall from a wall and suffer severe spinal cord injuries, leaving him tetraplegic and in a wheelchair. The incident occurred on April 24, 2022, in Woodford Green, east London, after officers responded to an attempted burglary. The prosecution, led by Irshad Sheikh, argues that Newman's use of force was unreasonable and unlawful, given his training on Taser deployment risks, especially when subjects are at height or moving at speed. Leonard Sandiford testified that he ran from police because he was 'spooked' and did not want to return to prison. Kevin Baumber is defending Liam Newman, who denies the charge. The trial continues.