Ex-prem star Dalian ‘Tasered for 33 seconds’

SUCCESS Dalian playing for Man City

ASTON Villa hero Dalian Atkinson died after an “angry” police officer Tasered him for 33 seconds before kicking his head “like a football”, a court heard.

PC Benjamin Monk, 42, accused of murder, allegedly deployed his Taser for more than six times the default five seconds to restrain the ex-footballer, who was displaying “erratic” behaviour.

As Dalian lay unconscious after being tasered, Monk kicked him, leaving two imprints from his boot laces on his forehead, prosecutor Alexandra Healy QC told Birmingham crown court.

At the same time, PC Ellie Bettleysmith, who Monk was in a relationship with, was allegedly hitting Dalian with her baton.

Neighbours called police after Dalian, who had heart disease, turned up at his father’s home in Telford, Shrops, at 1.30am in August 2016, shouting to be let in.

Monk twice tried unsuccessfully to taser him, then pressed the trigger a third time after Dalian smashed a door pane.

Ms Healy said: “This deployment was completely effective. Dalian Atkinson fell forwards, on to the road.” She said the default phase of a Taser was set at five seconds, but could be over-ridden by continuing to depress the trigger.

Ms Healy said: “The Taser was deployed for 33 seconds. PC Monk also proceeded to kick Dalian Atkinson.”

Monk denies murder and an alternative charge of manslaughter. Bettley-smith, 31, denies ABH. The trial continues.

IN THE DOCK Monk and Bettley-smith