Clare Nowland who was tasered by NSW Police and left in critical condition has now died

By TILEAH DOBSON

Clare Nowland, the 95 year-old woman who was tasered by a NSW Police officer last week has died, one week after the incident occurred.

Last night, Senior Constable Kristian White was charged with recklessly causing grievous bodily harm, assault occasioning actual bodily harm, and common assault, after allegedly tasering Nowland at the Yallambee Lodge aged care facility.

White has been issued with a future court attendance notice and is still suspended with pay leave until he’s set to appear before court on Wednesday 5^th July.

Condolences Expressed

NSW Police has issued a statement regarding Nowland’s passing, stating that she was surrounded by loved ones.

“It is with great sadness we confirm the passing of 95-year-old Clare Nowland in Cooma tonight (Wednesday 24 May 2023),” the statement read.

“Mrs Nowland passed away peacefully in hospital just after 7pm this evening, surrounded by family and loved ones who have requested privacy during this sad and difficult time.”

“Our thoughts and condolences remain with those who were lucky enough to know, love, and be loved by Mrs Nowland during a life she led hallmarked by family, kindness and community.”

NSW Police Minister Yasmin Catley has also expressed her condolences, stating that her “sympathies and thoughts are also extended to the community of Cooma, Mrs Nowland’s friends, as well as the residents and carers at Cooma Yallambee Lodge.”

“We will continue to offer support to the Nowland family as they mourn this loss, and we urge people to respect their privacy at this time,” she said.

The Incident

The 33 year-old senior constable and his partner were called to the aged care facility in Cooma after staff had discovered Nowland wandering around with a steak knife.

It’s been reported that White had tasered her twice, once in the chest and once in the back, after failing to disarm her. Nowland, who suffered from dementia, fell to the ground and hit her head.

Prior to Nowland’s death, NSW Police Commissioner Karen Webb addressed the media and informed them of the charges laid against White, as well as thanking the detectives who had “worked around the clock” within the last week.

“This has been traumatic for everyone in the police force and this is one matter while the rest of the police force does its job 24/7 to protect and look after the citizens of NSW,” she said.

“This matter now is before the court and there is little more that I can say about it other than the Nowland family have been informed of this development.”

“Our thoughts and prayers are with Mrs Nowland and her family this evening.