Two police officers have been dismissed for using excessive force on a 92-year-old dementia patient in East Sussex in June 2022. PC Stephen Smith, 52, and PC Rachel Comotto, 37, were found guilty of gross misconduct after tasering, pepper-spraying, and striking Donald Burgess, an amputee confined to a wheelchair, during a brief police interaction.

The incident occurred at Park Beck Care Home in St Leonards-on-Sea when Burgess failed to comply with officers’ orders to put down a small cutlery knife. According to a disciplinary panel, the officers applied a baton, Taser, and pepper spray over approximately 90 seconds. Following the confrontation, Burgess was handcuffed and taken to a police station, after which his health deteriorated. He was subsequently hospitalized and died three weeks later, following complications including a urinary tract infection, delirium related to dementia, contraction of Covid-19, and a cardiac arrest.

The disciplinary hearing concluded that Smith and Comotto behaved hastily and lost control during the encounter, employing unnecessary and excessive force without showing appropriate compassion for Burgess’s vulnerable state. The panel’s decision to dismiss both officers was reached despite their acquittal on assault charges in a separate criminal trial at Southwark Crown Court last year.

Burgess’s family expressed shock and distress over the officers’ conduct, describing their actions as “disgusting.” His great-nephew, Jason Pye, emphasized that Burgess’s medical condition, including delirium and infection, contributed to his vulnerable behavior. Pye stated that while the dismissal would not undo the harm caused, it was essential for community safety that officers demonstrating such behavior are removed from duty.

During the same day as the incident, Comotto was reported to have engaged in social media exchanges with colleagues that suggested a dismissive attitude toward care home residents, prompting additional concern about her approach to vulnerable individuals.

Experts in policing and human rights called the use of force against Burgess “appalling” and highlighted the challenges and responsibilities officers face when dealing with people who have mental health conditions or cognitive impairments. The case has raised questions about the training and protocols in place for law enforcement when interacting with elderly and disabled persons.

The Sussex Police statement following the disciplinary ruling reaffirmed their commitment to upholding professional standards and ensuring accountability in cases where officers fail to act within appropriate guidelines.