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Officers on Trial for Assaulting 93-Year-Old Amputee

5/20/2025

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Summary

Story summary

Two police officers, PC Stephen Smith and PC Rachel Comotto, face trial for allegedly assaulting 93-year-old amputee Donald Burgess at a care home. The officers reportedly pepper-sprayed, Tasered, and struck him with a baton while he wielded a small knife. Prosecutors contend their actions were excessive and unjustified, even as Burgess later passed away from unrelated health complications.

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Story summary

Two police officers, PC Stephen Smith and PC Rachel Comotto, face trial for allegedly assaulting 93-year-old amputee Donald Burgess at a care home. The officers reportedly pepper-sprayed, Tasered, and struck him with a baton while he wielded a small knife. Prosecutors contend their actions were excessive and unjustified, even as Burgess later passed away from unrelated health complications.