Donald Burgess, a 93-year-old dementia sufferer with one leg, died after a police incident at Park Beck care home in St Leonards-on-Sea, East Sussex. The elderly man was reportedly threatening staff with a knife when police were called to the scene.
Officers responded using pepper spray, baton strikes, and ultimately a Taser when Burgess refused to drop the blade. Although he was disarmed and handcuffed, his condition rapidly deteriorated, resulting in hospitalisation. Burgess passed away three weeks later, in July 2022.
Following the incident, Sussex Police referred the case to the Independent Office for Police Conduct (IOPC), which launched a detailed investigation. As a result, PC Stephen Smith, aged 50, faces two counts of causing actual bodily harm (ABH), while PC Rachel Comotto, aged 34, is charged with one count. Both officers are scheduled to appear at Westminster Magistrates’ Court in April.
IOPC director Mel Palmer stated, “Our thoughts remain with Mr Burgess’s family. This investigation was conducted closely with Sussex Police and the Coroner. The decision to lay charges followed a rigorous review of the evidence.”
Family members expressed shock and sadness over Burgess’s death, describing him as a devoted husband to his late wife Ethel and a man who lived a blameless life. His health had declined significantly after her passing, which led to his admission to the care home.
Neighbours remembered Burgess as a friendly and kind individual who had battled diabetes, a condition that resulted in the amputation of his leg. The court case on April 24 is expected to provide further details about the circumstances surrounding this tragic event and the police conduct involved.
Originally published by UKNIP.
