Advertisement

We need your help now

Support from readers like you keeps The Journal open.

You are visiting us because we have something you value. Independent, unbiased news that tells the truth. Advertising revenue goes some way to support our mission, but this year it has not been enough.

If you've seen value in our reporting, please contribute what you can, so we can continue to produce accurate and meaningful journalism. For everyone who needs it.

YouTube/ThickShadesNews
Tasered

Police taser blind man after mistaking stick for samurai sword

The grandfather thought he was going to die when he felt the electricity surge through his body.

POLICE USED A stun gun to subdue blind man and two-time stroke victim Colin Farmer when they mistook his white cane for a samurai sword.

The frightened grandfather, who is also partially paralysed, from Lancashire, England, said he thought he was going to die when he was knocked to the ground after being hit by the 50,000-volt taser in the back.

The 61-year-old told Sky News:

“It seemed to be going on forever… I was convinced I was being murdered in plain sight. He (the officer) jumped on the small of my back with his knees… wrenched my arms up my back and cuffed me so tightly I was in great pain. I shouted, “I’m blind! I’m blind!”

When officers realised their mistake, he was rushed to a hospital where he was discharged after a check-up.

Not a samurai sword, left, a samurai sword, right. Image Shutterstock.

He is now calling on the officer responsible to be ‘sacked, charged and locked-up’ following the incident.

British police have apologised for the mishap in the bizarre case of mistaken identity and said a different man was arrested in connection with the sword reports, but was released without charge.

An investigation has been launched into the incident and will be reviewed by the Independent Police Complaints Commission.

Is it possible to mistake a white cane for a samurai sword?


Poll Results:

No, don't be ridiculous (1174)
Maybe, if it was dark (1098)
Yes, they are basically identical (92)

Read: Which one blends faster? An iPhone 5 or a Galaxy S3? >

Your Voice
Readers Comments
72
    Submit a report
    Please help us understand how this comment violates our community guidelines.
    Thank you for the feedback
    Your feedback has been sent to our team for review.