Canberra police facing review after tasering of woman with disability

The interaction began after a member of the public reported that the woman was in possession of a knife. Released body-worn camera footage depicts the woman pleading with officers to refrain from using a taser and asserting her innocence.

Footage shows the woman being pulled to the ground, tasered in the back, handcuffed, and subsequently placed headfirst into a police van. In September, Special Magistrate Sean Richter expressed concerns about the officers’ actions, describing them as “unwarranted and heavy-handed.”

A search of the woman’s bag revealed she carried scissors, not a knife. Deputy Chief Police Officer Richard Chin acknowledged the review, stating the magistrate’s comments prompted the investigation. He confirmed the officers involved remain on duty and that a detailed examination of the circumstances is underway.

First Nations leaders have condemned the incident, with the Aboriginal Legal Service labeling the footage “shocking” and emphasizing the public’s need to witness it. Assistant Commissioner Chin expressed regret that the body-worn camera footage may be distressing and reiterated the importance of positive relations with the First Nations community.

The Australian Federal Police Association president, Alex Caruana, defended the officers’ actions, claiming the woman “struck out” at them and asserting that the incident was not racially motivated. He stated officers acted to ensure community safety based on the initial report of a knife.

By the time of sentencing in September, all but one charge—possessing a knife without a reasonable excuse—had been dropped. The lawsuit filed by the woman alleges assault, battery, a breach of human rights, and misfeasance in public office. A formal response from the police has not yet been filed.