Two West Mercia Police officers could face criminal charges over the death of former Town striker Dalian Atkinson, who died aged 48 after being Tasered outside his father’s house in Telford in the early hours of 15th August 2016.
The Independent Office for Police Conduct (IOPC) has referred evidence to the Crown Prosecution Service (CPS), the two officers having been interviewed twice under criminal caution and been served with gross misconduct notices. A third officer's conduct has not been referred to the CPS.
"The investigation gathered evidence which indicates that police contact with Mr Atkinson involved the use of a Taser, followed by a period of restraint and other uses of force," the IOPC said.
Martin Evans, assistant chief constable for West Mercia Police, confirmed a Taser was deployed in the incident.
"We understand the need for answers by those directly affected by this tragedy and also by the wider community that West Mercia Police serves," he said. "It would be inappropriate for us to comment further at this time.”
Atkinson's family said in a statement: "It’s been a long, frustrating and difficult process over the last two years, watching the investigation take its course and awaiting answers as to how our brother died.
"We still don’t know all the details even now, and look forward to the time when everything is in the public domain.
"We are pleased to hear today that the IOPC has referred the case to the CPS for criminal charges to be considered and has recommended disciplinary charges. This is a huge step closer to getting justice for Dalian.”
Atkinson joined Town as a youth player having been scouted by legendary Blues talent spotter Ron Gray during Bobby Ferguson’s time as boss.
The Shrewsbury-born frontman made his senior debut in March 1986 and went on to make 56 starts and 13 sub appearances scoring 21 goals before moving to Sheffield Wednesday for £450,000 in July 1989. Aston Villa, Real Sociedad and Fenerbahçe were among his other clubs.