Coroner Rules Shargin Stephens' Death Was 'Preventable'

A coroner's report has delivered a scathing critique of the police response during the fatal shooting of Shargin Stephens in July 2016, ruling that his death was 'preventable' and highlighting a systemic failure in police tactics, leadership, and risk assessment.

Shargin Stephens, a 35-year-old Māori man with no history of violence, was shot dead by a probationary police officer who had only been with the force for one year. The officer, who was in an 'overly elevated emotional state,' took the lead in confronting Stephens, despite being the most junior officer on the scene and lacking the experience or authority to do so.

The coroner, Robb, noted that the officer perceived the events in a 'significantly inaccurate way' and received no guidance or leadership from senior officers. This lack of control and oversight allowed the junior officer to act independently, ultimately leading to the tragic outcome.

The report also criticized the police for their 'defensiveness' and 'unwillingness to accept criticism' of their actions. It highlighted a failure to cordon and contain Stephens, and a lack of de-escalation training that could have potentially prevented the use of lethal force.

One of the most shocking revelations in the report was the fact that Stephens had undergone 70 bail checks over a 38-day period. However, these checks did not raise any red flags that would have indicated a potential threat to public safety.

The coroner also pointed out that the police had not learned from the incident, despite the fact that it had occurred nearly a decade ago. He emphasized the need for more training on de-escalation, the definition of an imminent threat, and the importance of preserving life as a core police responsibility.

The coroner recommended that police officers wear body cameras, that probationary officers be trained to avoid asserting control over more senior officers, and that M4 rifles be accessed only as a last resort. These recommendations aim to improve transparency, accountability, and the safety of both officers and the public.

In a statement, Bay of Plenty district commander Superintendent Tim Anderson acknowledged the profound impact of the incident on families and staff, and emphasized the police commitment to improving responses to critical incidents. He stated that the use of lethal force is an 'absolute last resort' and that officers are trained to resolve incidents peacefully whenever possible.

The coroner did not recommend that the officer involved face prosecution, citing that in the moment of the shooting, the officer may have reasonably felt in danger. However, he did stress the importance of reevaluating police risk assessment practices to ensure that they prioritize the preservation of life.

The family of Shargin Stephens expressed their sorrow and the deep connection they now share with the officer’s family, stating that they hope the tragedy may serve as a threshold toward a future filled with possibility and healthy growth.

As the report is referred back to the police and the Independent Police Conduct Authority (IPCA), the focus now turns to whether these recommendations will be implemented and whether meaningful change will follow.