17/10/2012

Police Taser 61-Year-Old Blind Man

A 61-year-old blind man has been Tasered by police who mistook his white stick for a sword.

Colin Farmer was stunned by police following reports of a man walking through Chorley with a samurai sword.

Ch Supt Stuart Williams, of Lancashire Police, said the force had "deep regrets" and had "clearly put this man through a traumatic experience".

"It felt like I was grabbing an electricity pylon," he said.

Mr Farmer, who has suffered two strokes, said he thought he was being attacked by thugs.

Mr Farmer was taken to hospital for treatment and later discharged.

The case has been referred to the Independent Police Complaints Commission.

A Lancashire Police spokesman said the incident was being investigated and the officer's Taser had been withdrawn.

Mr Farmer was taken to hospital for treatment and later discharged.

(H)


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