Two Sussex cops on trial for brutal takedown of 92-year-old wheelchair-bound pensioner who later died
Shock Incident at East Sussex Care Home
Two Sussex Police officers are facing serious charges at Southwark Crown Court over their violent handling of a 92-year-old care home resident in St Leonards, East Sussex. The elderly man, Donald Burgess, who was wheelchair-bound and had lost a leg, was involved in a distressing incident at Park Beck care home in June 2022 during a mental health crisis. Staff called police after he reportedly threatened to “murder” the site manager with a butter knife-like cutlery piece.
Officers Accused of Excessive Force
- PC Stephen Smith, 51, faces two assault charges for allegedly using 1 and a baton against Mr Burgess.
- PC Rachel Comotto is charged with one count of assault after discharging her Taser during the heated confrontation.
Both officers deny the charges. Bodycam footage shows PC Smith spraying nearly a full can of pepper spray directly into Mr Burgess’s face before PC Comotto fired her Taser, leaving a barb embedded in the elderly man that needed hospital removal.
Witnesses Paint Grim Picture
Steve Cooper, the care home manager, said: “He had a look in his eyes I’ve not seen before. He wasn’t the Donald I knew.”
Mr Cooper revealed staff spent 35 minutes trying to calm Mr Burgess before dialing 999 — stressing that physical restraints are not allowed at the home.
During a 999 call played in court, Deputy Manager Donna Gardner expressed fears Mr Burgess might harm himself or others. She insisted every possible measure was tried before calling the police.
Senior manager Alison O’Donohue described Mr Burgess as normally a “happy gentleman” and said this was the first time police had to be called.
Legal Battle and Investigation Continue
Mr Burgess died in hospital three weeks after the incident, but prosecutors clarified they do not blame the officers for his death. The Crown Prosecution Service alleges the officers used unnecessary force during the intervention.
The trial at Southwark Crown Court is ongoing, with more police witnesses and expert testimonies due. Both officers remain suspended as the case unfolds.
