Tetraplegic to sue police over struggle

A man left a tetraplegic after a late-night struggle with a police officer is planning to sue police.

Craig Wilson, 25, has lost the use of his legs after was arrested in Ashburton last January. He has limited use of his arms and is confined to a wheelchair.

Mid-South Canterbury police carried out a criminal investigation into the actions of the unnamed arresting officer.

Police announced yesterday that they found no evidence of excessive force and the officer would not be prosecuted.

Mr Wilson could not be reached for comment but his lawyer, Jonathan McCarthy, said a civil action against police was a "high probability".

Any action would be filed in the "near future".

Mr McCarthy said a lawsuit would not be in response to the police's decision not to prosecute the arresting officer.

"It was contemplated from an early point," he said.

The Police Complaints Authority will also investigate the incident.

According to police, Mr Wilson suffered the injuries to his neck and spine after being pulled over in his car by the arresting officer about 1am on January 8.

It was the second time he had been stopped by police that night over his driving.

It is alleged that while being spoken to by the officer, Mr Wilson walked into him. The officer tried to arrest Mr Wilson for assault and a short chase followed.

Mr Wilson was pepper-sprayed and was being led back to the police car when he allegedly kicked the officer.

Another struggle between the pair followed, in which both men fell and Mr Wilson suffered his injuries.

He has since spent most of his time at the Burwood Spinal Unit in Christchurch. But the Herald understands he has been living with support from family at home in Ashburton for about the past three months.

Burwood clinical director Rick Acland said Mr Wilson would have to rely on carers for some aspects of his life, but could live independently.

He had had no "recovery of function" since the accident.

"Sadly, he would be highly unlikely to get any further recovery," said Dr Acland.

Police said yesterday that a full investigation had concluded the constable involved was justified in arresting Mr Wilson.

Said area commander Inspector Dave Gaskin: "The injuries to Mr Wilson occurred when he fell to the ground while struggling with the constable who was attempting to affect the arrest."