Magistrate Slams "Heavy-Handed" Police Taser Use on Vulnerable Woman

A magistrate has sharply criticised ACT police for what he termed "exceedingly heavy-handed" conduct during the Taser arrest of an Aboriginal woman with a disability. Body-worn camera footage, presented to the ACT Magistrates Court, shows the woman being pulled from a bench and a Taser activated, even as she pleaded not to be stunned and stated she was unarmed. The court heard the woman, identified as Emma, has a traumatic brain injury and a neurocognitive disorder. Special Magistrate Sean Richter expressed dismay at the officers' actions, questioning the apparent lack of de-escalation.

Emma was initially charged with multiple offences, though most were withdrawn. She pleaded guilty to possessing scissors without reasonable excuse, linked to items found in a backpack. However, a civil claim filed in July alleges one officer made misleading statements, contributing to Emma spending 28 days in custody before bail was granted. The claim asserts police misrepresented Emma's actions and the perceived threat, contrary to witness statements indicating a lack of fear. ACT Policing has stated it cannot comment further due to an ongoing civil claim.

This incident occurs amidst broader scrutiny of ACT police's use of force, particularly concerning Aboriginal people. Previous ombudsman reports have criticised police for unprofessional behaviour that can escalate situations and for failing to adequately address racial profiling. Recommendations for improved training on mental illness have reportedly not been accepted by the police force.