COPS FEAR PREM ACE DEATH RAP

Dalian Taser file sent to CPS

TWO police officers could face criminal charges over the death of former Premier League star Dalian Atkinson.

The former Aston Villa ace died 90 minutes after being Tasered outside his father’s house.

A file from the Independent Office for Police Conduct has gone to prosecutors.

Three West Mercia Police officers were interviewed, twice, under criminal caution and served with gross misconduct notices.

But the actions of the third officer have not been referred to the Crown Prosecution Service.

The watchdog’s regional director, Derrick Campbell, said: “On the basis of the evidence gathered I have decided to refer the matter to the Crown Prosecution Service to consider any potential criminal charges over the interaction two police officers had with Dalian Atkinson.

“This has been a lengthy and complex investigation.”

Witnesses claimed the player, 48, who battled mental health issues, was in the grip of a manic episode when police in Telford, Shrops, Tasered him.

Neighbours revealed the former Sheffield Wednesday and Ipswich Town star had been banging on his father’s door and “shouting about being homeless”.

One witness said he went down “like a lead balloon” after being hit by the Taser. TRAGEDY: Dalian