In a perplexing incident in Chatsworth, Georgia, law enforcement officers tased an 87-year-old woman, Clara Al-Mansour, as she was using a knife to collect dandelions near her residence. When approached by the police, Al-Mansour, who does not speak English, did not drop her knife as instructed. In a surprising turn of events, an officer decided to deploy a stun gun on her.
The police were alerted by a staff member from a local Boys and Girls Club, who reported, “There’s a lady on the bike trails with a knife, and she won’t leave.” The employee clarified that Al-Mansour did not threaten anyone but was merely wandering and looking for weeds to cut.
Upon arrival, officers struggled to communicate with her. One officer recounted trying to demonstrate by throwing his own knife to the ground, but Al-Mansour continued to approach them. Ultimately, she was tased in the chest and subsequently handcuffed.
Al-Mansour was charged with criminal trespassing and obstructing justice. Afterward, her family informed the police that she suffers from dementia, speaks Arabic, and enjoys foraging for dandelions to use in her salads.
The incident sparked outrage online, with many questioning the appropriateness of using force against an elderly woman. Chatsworth Police Chief Mark Anderson defended his officers, stating, “An elderly woman with a knife can still pose a risk.” He maintained that the action taken was the least forceful option available at the time.
Fortunately, Al-Mansour is recovering but remains disturbed by the encounter. Her great-granddaughter, Sarah Steele, shared that Al-Mansour has been apologizing to her family for the situation. “If three officers couldn’t handle an 87-year-old woman, perhaps they should reconsider their positions,” remarked James Steele, her great-nephew.
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In summary, this incident serves as a reminder of the complexities law enforcement faces and the need for clear communication, especially in situations involving vulnerable individuals.