Police had tried to arrest Donald Burgess, who was confined to a wheelchair, had one leg and suffered from dementia, after he was reported to have threatened care staff with a knife. Two officers from Sussex Police attended the house, in St Leonards-on-Sea, East Sussex, on June 21. One of them used Pava spray, which looks like pepper spray, while the other deployed a Taser. The knife was then taken from Burgess and he was handcuffed. He was taken to hospital, where he remained until his death three weeks later on July 13. The Independent Office for Police Conduct (IOPC) is investigating whether allegations of excessive force by officers amount to criminal manslaughter after Sussex Police referred the watchdog. IOPC regional director Graham Beesley said: “I want to express my condolences to the man’s relatives and those who knew him. We have informed his next of kin of our independent investigation and explained the steps we will take. “This will include an investigation into whether the force used by the two officers against this man was reasonable, necessary and proportionate in the circumstances and in accordance with local and national policies, procedures and guidance.” So far, the IOPC’s investigation has included taking witness statements, examining body-worn photographs of the officers and watching the July 21 autopsy. The cause of Mr Burgess’ death is not yet known. Serious misconduct notices have been served on the two officers involved, both police officers, with letters informing them they are under criminal investigation for manslaughter. The IOPC says these actions do not necessarily mean disciplinary proceedings or criminal charges.
