A Metropolitan Police officer is facing a gross misconduct hearing after he Tasered a man, resulting in the man becoming paralyzed.

PC Imran Mahmood, who was previously acquitted of inflicting grievous bodily harm, is facing allegations regarding his conduct during the incident involving Jordan Walker-Brown in Haringey, North London, during the initial COVID-19 lockdown in May 2020.

Mr. Walker-Brown, then aged 23, suffered severe spinal injuries, leaving him wheelchair-bound, after falling backward over a fence while trying to evade police.

The incident unfolded when PC Mahmood, who was patrolling with other officers, noted Mr. Walker-Brown walking on the pavement and decided to approach him due to suspicions about his presence in the area during lockdown.

The officer reportedly perceived Mr. Walker-Brown to be a potential threat, believing he might be armed with a knife.

Following the Taser deployment, Mr. Walker-Brown fell and hit his head on the pavement, resulting in what has been described as “catastrophic” injuries.

The Metropolitan Police has since admitted liability for the incident, with Mr. Walker-Brown set to receive at least £1 million in compensation.

PC Mahmood is due to appear at a misconduct hearing on September 10, where he will be accused of breaching professional standards concerning the appropriate use of force.

The misconduct notice claims that the circumstances of the case are serious enough to warrant dismissal from the police force.

After the verdict in PC Mahmood's previous trial, Mr. Walker-Brown commented on the challenges he faced during the legal process, stating that he felt the outcome was predetermined.

He mentioned that he was unarmed and was carrying a small amount of cannabis for personal use at the time of the incident, expressing fears of being confronted by police because of his race.

During the hearing, evidence was presented that PC Mahmood and a colleague pursued Mr. Walker-Brown after he attempted to escape.

As he climbed over a fence, the Taser discharged, leading to the fall that caused his injuries.

The officer claimed to have believed his actions were justified as he thought Mr. Walker-Brown was cornered and posed an imminent threat.

Detective Chief Superintendent Caroline Haines commented on the incident, expressing her sympathy for Mr. Walker-Brown and his family while acknowledging the scrutiny that follows police actions resulting in harm to individuals.

She remarked on the ongoing discussions regarding police use of Tasers, calling for improved community engagement and monitoring in relation to the use of such tactics.

The police's position is that while Tasers are viewed by some as controversial, they are regarded as a vital tool that will continue to undergo review and training for officers to ensure proper application.