NSW police officer retains position after assault on patient in hospital
Leading Senior Constable Steven Hyde will stay with NSW Police despite being found guilty of assaulting a man on a hospital gurney, with management penalties imposed.
Hospital CCTV and police body-camera video show Leading Senior Constable Steven Hyde hitting a man being transferred on a gurney at Blacktown Hospital after the victim tossed a water bottle. The incident followed a call to the man's home for a suspected drug overdose, where officers escorted paramedics to the hospital. Hyde was charged with assault and, after a local court hearing, a District Court judge found him guilty but issued only a good-behaviour bond without recording a conviction.
NSW Police confirmed that Hyde will keep his job, but will lose his rank, be placed on two years of restricted duties and must complete a retraining plan. Constable Talaisai Alo, who was present, faced no charges. The police force will continue to monitor Hyde's conduct.
Why it matters
The case raises questions about police accountability and disciplinary standards after an officer assaults a patient in a medical setting.
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