Police Probe Underway After Disabled Elderly Man Dies Following Sussex Care Home Incident
Knife Threat Sparks Police Response
The Independent Office for Police Conduct (IOPC) has launched a serious investigation into two Sussex Police officers after force was used on a 93-year-old disabled man in a St Leonards-on-Sea care home. The drama unfolded on the afternoon of Tuesday, 21 June, when officers were called to the care home following reports that a dementia patient, Donald Burgess, was brandishing a knife and threatening staff.
Use of Force Sparks Controversy
Upon arrival, officers were led to a room where Burgess sat in a wheelchair with one leg, holding a knife. The officers used PAVA spray and a baton, with one officer deploying a Taser to subdue him. They then removed the knife and handcuffed the elderly man before rushing him to hospital for treatment.
Tragic Outcome and Ongoing Investigation
Donald Burgess sadly died three weeks later on Wednesday, 13 July. The IOPC investigation began after Sussex Police voluntarily referred the case on 28 June amid allegations of excessive force by the officers. The probe involves reviewing bodycam footage, witness statements, and results from a post-mortem and ongoing cardio-pathological tests, as the cause of death remains unclear.
Officers Face Manslaughter Investigation
Both officers, police constables, have been served gross misconduct notices and notified they are under criminal investigation for manslaughter. IOPC Regional Director Graham Beesley offered condolences to the family, stating:
“We informed his next-of-kin about our independent investigation and the steps we intend to take. This will include determining whether the two officers’ use of force was reasonable, necessary, and proportionate, and compliant with national and local policies.”
The inquiry continues as the nation awaits answers about the tragic death of Donald Burgess and whether the police acted properly in the heat of the moment.
