Cops to fight allegations of assaulting elderly man
Both police officers accused of assaulting an elderly man with possible dementia will fight charges stemming from the incident.
Constable James Robert Thompson, 34, and Senior Constable Dean George Valesini, 36, are alleged to have assaulted the 92-year-old man during a domestic violence call-out in southwest Sydney on January 21, 2024.
The officers responded to two triple-zero calls from an elderly woman about 9pm before Ronald Hodge was found at the Picton address and handcuffed.
The 92-year-old was later taken to hospital with a fractured right elbow and considerable bruising to his head and arms.
In June, NSW Police Commissioner Karen Webb said it was likely the elderly man had dementia, adding it was a “complex matter” dealing with people who could not clearly articulate their concerns.
A not-guilty plea was entered on Thompson’s behalf in Campbelltown Local Court on Tuesday during the first scheduled listing for his case.
The Narellan man did not appear in person and was represented in court by his solicitor, who said the officer would challenge charges of assault occasioning actual bodily harm and common assault.
Thompson is due to reappear at Sydney’s Downing Centre Court on September 24, the same date as Valesini.
The senior constable previously pleaded not guilty to his single charge of assault occasioning actual bodily harm.
Both officers remain employed by NSW Police.
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