Ex-police officer Nicole Short says Sheku Bayoh attack turned world 'upside down'

Ex-police officer Nicole Short says Sheku Bayoh attack turned world 'upside down'

Nicole Short, a female police constable who was present on the day Sheku Bayoh passed away, described the impact of that fateful day as turning her world “upside down.” At a media conference in Glasgow, Short reflected on how her life was forever changed, stating, “It’s like my life was reset that day and I’ve spent every day since trying to rebuild it.” She spoke as the Scottish Police Federation (SPF) criticized First Minister John Swinney for agreeing to meet with Mr. Bayoh’s family.

The official inquiry into Bayoh’s death faced turmoil after chairman Lord Bracadale and the four counsel to the inquiry resigned, throwing the investigation into disarray. The inquiry had commenced in November 2020 under the leadership of Lord Bracadale to investigate the police’s reaction following Bayoh’s demise and explore any potential racial influences. However, Lord Bracadale stepped down following pressure from the SPF regarding his interactions with Bayoh’s family, admitting that confidence in his conduct had irreversibly diminished.

Sheku Bayoh, a 31-year-old, tragically lost his life after six police officers restrained him. Despite initial reports of him wielding a knife and displaying erratic behavior, he was unarmed when the authorities arrived on the scene. Bayoh became unconscious during the altercation with the officers and subsequently passed away in the hospital. Short, who was involved at the scene, previously recounted the harrowing experience of being attacked by Bayoh, enduring punches and stomps while incapacitated on the ground.

Reflecting on the ongoing impacts of the incident, Short disclosed her struggles with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), acknowledging the persistent mental toll it exacted on her. She emphasized how the ordeal continues to haunt her daily, from morning till night, remarking on the instant triggering effect of news updates or broadcasts related to the event. Short lauded her colleagues for their swift intervention in saving her life, expressing profound gratitude for their courage and quick thinking during the crisis. The SPF used the occasion to criticize the first minister for what they perceived as compromising the fairness and transparency of the investigation

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