News   /   Human Rights

Taser, restraint contributed to Begley’s death

File image of Jordan Begley

An inquest has found that the 2013 death of a 23-year-old factory worker was the result of being restrained and tasered by police.

It is the first time a UK jury has ruled that a Taser and restraint has directly caused a death.

Jordan Begley was rowing with his neighbor when his mother called the police. Three armed officers restrained Begley and he was shot with a 50,000 volt stun gun and punched by the police officers. He later suffered a cardiac arrest and died.

Following the inquest which took 5 weeks, the jury came to the conclusion that the police were more concerned for their own welfare rather than the welfare of Mr Begley. They also concluded that the officer, Pc Terrence Donnelly should not have pulled the Taser trigger for eight seconds, a period they felt was too long.

The family of Begley have been fighting for justice for two years.

“After two years of fighting everybody, fighting the system, Jordon's day has come. That is all I ever wanted. The last two years have been hell...Those officers should not be patrolling the streets,” his mother said.

The family of Jordan Begley intend to launch a legal case against Greater Manchester Police.

The actions of the police have been under the spotlight amid growing reports on excessive use of force by police officers.

Some critics have argued that the police are in some cases too aggressive, particular after the introduction of Tasers in 2003. The argument for Tasers has been that they are safer than guns, however the death of Begley and the more prominent use of Tasers has ignited the debate on whether they are in fact a safer option.

MW/HA

 


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