The officer who tasered 95-year-old dementia patient Clare Nowland has been suspended. Because of our joint efforts, the authorities are taking action. But we need to keep the pressure on. Clare remains in critical condition.
Show your support by sharing our petition
The Law Enforcement Conduct Commission (LECC), tasked with oversight of the police, acknowledges its limitations in handling such cases. According to NSW Police guidelines, an officer can use a stun gun when violent resistance is occurring or is imminent or when an officer is in danger of being overpowered. Surely, they can come up with more appropriate ways of dealing with non-compliant people who are vulnerable members of our community, living with a health condition.
Your support will help maintain pressure on the authorities to ensure this is investigated properly and that incidents like Clare's never happened again.
The two police officers dealing with Clare had more than 10 years of experience. This clearly underscores the urgent need for better training and protocols for the police force, It also highlights the need for special training around de-escalation techniques among aged care staff and paramedics when working with people in our communities who are living with dementia. Past incidents show that this is not an isolated case, but a repeating pattern we must break.
My thoughts are with Clare's family at this time. I hope they can feel the community support in the form of the growing petition signatures.
Encourage your friends and family to stand with us in advocating for the rights and safety of the vulnerable.