A Metropolitan Police officer accused of inflicting life-changing injuries to a man who was tasered has appeared in court to deny causing grievous bodily harm.
PC Liam Newman, who is based at Ilford police station, has been charged over an incident in which 61-year-old Leonard Sandiford was badly injured in a fall in Woodford Green, in east London.
The Independent Office for Police Conduct (IOPC) said Mr Sandiford climbed on top of a “shed structure” in Oakwood Close on April 24, 2022 after being chased by PC Newman.
It is said Mr Sandiford fell and was badly injured when he was tasered by the officer.
PC Newman, 30, dressed in a black three-piece suit, appeared in the dock at Westminster magistrates court on Wednesday morning.
He spoke to confirm his name, age, home address in Wallis Close in Hornchurch, Essex, and to enter a not guilty plea to the charge of wounding or inflicting grievous bodily harm without intent.
“This case involves the use of a Taser against another male who has sustained serious life-changing injuries”, prosecutor Rhianne Neil told the court.
“The defendant was a police officer acting in the course of his duties at the time.”
PC Newman’s case was sent to Southwark crown court for a trial, with a preliminary hearing set for December 18.
He was charged by postal requisition after a year-long investigation by the IOPC.
“I am acutely aware of the level of public concern following this incident”, said Chief Superintendent Stuart Bell, who leads policing in Redbridge, Havering, and Barking and Dagenham, after the charge was announced.
“Our officers understand it is vitally important to maintain public trust and confidence, and that such matters are thoroughly investigated.
“Given criminal proceedings are now active we must now allow the circumstances to be examined in open court.”
PC Newman was released from court on unconditional bail.
