A police constable from West Mercia Police has been charged with the murder of former Town striker Dalian Atkinson, who died after being Tasered outside his father’s house in Telford in August 2016.
A second constable from the same force has been charged with assault causing actual bodily harm. The two defendants were bailed after appearing at Birmingham Crown Court earlier today.
An investigation by the Independent Office for Police Conduct led to the Crown Prosecution Service making the decision to press charges.
Kate Maynard, the Atkinson family's solicitor, said: "Dalian’s family welcomes the decision to put the conduct of police officers before a jury but regrets that already more than three years have passed since Dalian died.
"They ask for their privacy to be respected and press for the criminal proceedings to progress without delay or obstruction.”
Anthony Bangham, the chief constable of West Mercia Police, said: "Our thoughts continue to remain with the family and friends of Dalian Atkinson at this difficult time.
"We understand the need for answers. However, as court proceedings are now under way it would not be appropriate for us to make any further comment regarding the circumstances of Mr Atkinson’s death.
"The officers involved have a right to a fair trial and we will continue to make sure they have the appropriate support throughout the forthcoming criminal justice process.”
Atkinson, 48 at the time of his death, 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.