A blind stroke victim who was tasered in the back by police has launched a damages claim.
Innocent Colin Farmer, 63, was tasered with a 50,000 volt stun gun in Chorley.
Police mistook the white stick he was carrying for a samurai sword.
They said they had received reports that a man carrying such a sword was roaming the area.
The incident happened on Peter Street, Chorley, on October 12 last year as Mr Farmer walked to a pub for a drink with friends.
The story made headlines across the country and the world after it was reported by the LEP.
Former architects practice boss Mr Farmer is claiming damages from Lancashire Constabulary for assault, false imprisonment, breach by the police of Article 3 under the European Convention of Human Rights (no one shall be subjected to torture or to inhuman or degrading treatment or punishment) and personal injury for the physical and psychological injuries he has suffered as a result of the incident.
In addition, Mr Farmer will be seeking a Declaration of Incompatibility from the High Court in relation to the use of the taser on him.
Grandfather Mr Farmer, of Royle Road, Chorley, who is registered blind/partially sighted and has suffered two strokes, said: “There has been worldwide outrage at what happened and the police are a laughing stock through the whole world.
“Laws need to be changed to stop this happening.”
An investigation by the Independent Police Complaints Commission is ongoing.
A Lancashire Police spokesperson said: “We can confirm we have received a claim from McMillan Williams Solicitors. Given this and the fact there’s an ongoing investigation by the Independent Police Complaints Commission, it would not be appropriate to comment further at this stage.”
Comments