A police officer in Sydney, Australia, was found guilty of manslaughter on November 27, 2024, after using a Taser on a 95-year-old nursing home resident. Kristian James Samuel White shocked Clare Nowland, who was holding a steak knife, leading to her death a week later from injuries sustained in the fall.
- Police officer found guilty of manslaughter
- Victim was a 95-year-old nursing home resident
- Incident involved Taser use on elderly woman
- Jury deemed Taser use excessive and unnecessary
- Case sparked debate on Taser policies
- Victim survived by large family network
The jury deliberated for 20 hours before reaching a verdict. White, who is currently on bail, faces a maximum sentence of 25 years in prison.
The incident occurred in May 2023 when Nowland, a resident of Yallambee Lodge nursing home, refused to drop a steak knife. Video evidence showed White discharging his Taser after officers had instructed Nowland to put down the knife 21 times. The prosecution argued that White’s actions were unnecessary and excessive, given Nowland’s frail condition, weighing only about 100 pounds (45 kilograms).
During the trial, White claimed he believed anyone wielding a knife was dangerous. However, the jury rejected his defense, concluding that the use of the Taser was not a proportionate response to the situation. The case has sparked discussions about police use of Tasers in New South Wales, with NSW Police Commissioner Karen Webb expressing condolences to Nowland’s family and noting that the department’s Taser policy remains unchanged despite the review.
Clare Nowland, who had dementia, was survived by eight children, 24 grandchildren, and 31 great-grandchildren. The case highlights the challenges faced by law enforcement in dealing with vulnerable individuals and raises questions about appropriate responses in similar situations.
The conviction of Kristian James Samuel White underscores the serious implications of police actions, particularly when involving vulnerable populations. As the case progresses to sentencing, it may lead to further scrutiny of Taser use and police protocols in Australia and beyond.
