The grief-stricken family of 95-year-old Clare Nowland struggles to come to terms with her death following an incident involving police officer Kristian White, who is currently on bail after being charged with manslaughter. White, 35, left the NSW Supreme Court while awaiting sentencing, having faced emotional testimony from Nowland’s family. The tragedy unfolded when Nowland, who was wandering in her aged care facility while holding a knife, was tased by White. This encounter, described by her daughter as “aggressive brutality,” led to Clare suffering fatal injuries and dying a week later.
The family’s anguish is compounded by the fact that they feel robbed of a dignified farewell and proper closure. They expressed outrage over White’s actions, branding them “gutless” and “inhumane.” Prosecutors highlighted White’s lack of remorse and described his departure from the force as unconvincing. His defence argued he genuinely believed he needed to intervene, framing his actions as an error in judgement rather than malicious intent.
As the judge takes time to deliberate, the Nowland family awaits justice for their matriarch, seeking accountability while grappling with their profound loss.