Officer acquitted of assault following Taser incident in 2022

PC Liam Newman, 31, was acquitted on Tuesday (January 13) following a trial at Southwark Crown Court.

The acquittal follows an incident on April 24, 2022, in Chigwell Road, Woodford Green, during which 61-year-old Leonard Sandiford suffered life-changing injuries when he fell from an outbuilding after being Tasered by PC Newman.

PC Newman – who is based on the East Area Command – had pleaded not guilty on November 20 2024 to grievous bodily harm, following an investigation by the Independent Office for Police Conduct (IOPC).

Chief Superintendent Stuart Bell, who is responsible for policing in Redbridge, said: “Our thoughts today are with Mr Sandiford who has been left with life-changing injuries following this tragic incident.

“It is always a matter of huge regret when an individual comes to harm following contact with police and vital that in such circumstances officers be held to the highest level of scrutiny. They face challenging situations everyday and have to make difficult decisions in the moment.

“We understand the concern caused by incidents of this nature and will be working with our local residents, partner agencies, and key members of those communities directly affected to understand any impact and provide support. We believe that Taser remains a vital tool but will continue to review its use and provide regular training to officers to ensure they are using the tactic appropriately.”

PC Newman has been on restricted duties since the incident. Now that criminal matters have concluded, the MPS said it will liaise with the IOPC around misconduct proceedings.

Matt Cane, General Secretary of the Metropolitan Police Federation, said it “notes and welcomes the decision of the jury in the case involving PC Liam Newman”.

“Society expects our officers to protect them and keep people safe. When officers are involved in operational incidents as a result of that expectation then society must provide police officers the legal care and backing needed to continue doing our jobs without fear or favour,” said Mr Cane.

“Police officers are incredibly accountable for their actions – as we have seen in this case. But this incident occurred almost four years ago which is a concerning amount of time for this to carry on.

“We would now look for any potential conduct proceedings hanging over PC Newman to be dealt with expediently following this correct not guilty verdict and for PC Newman to be allowed to fully resume his career.”