Man found guilty of shocking police cell shooting, sparking reforms and preserving the legacy of Sergeant Matt Ratana.
Who is Louis De Zoysa?
Louis De Zoysa, the 25-year-old man who fatally shot Sergeant Matt Ratana inside a police station custody cell, has been convicted of murder. The incident took place in September 2020 and shocked the nation. De Zoysa fired multiple shots, including one that struck Ratana in the chest, despite being handcuffed at the time.
De Zoysa stood trial at Northampton crown court, where he denied the murder charge. He claimed the shooting occurred during an “autistic meltdown” and was unintentional. However, the jury rejected this defense, finding De Zoysa guilty of murder. The court heard evidence of how he had managed to smuggle a gun into the custody block, resulting in the tragic death of Sgt. Ratana.
During the search process in the custody cell, De Zoysa suddenly fired four shots from an antique pistol, with one hitting Sgt. Ratana in the chest. The struggle ensued, and De Zoysa was eventually overpowered by police officers. Tragically, the incident left De Zoysa with a severe self-inflicted injury. He now faces sentencing on July 27.
The conviction of De Zoysa provides a sense of justice for the family, friends, and colleagues of Sgt. Ratana. The court rejected the defense’s claims of diminished responsibility, highlighting the defendant’s ability to control his actions.
The case has prompted the Metropolitan Police to introduce new search measures, including the deployment of handheld metal detectors and the piloting of full-body scanners in custody suites.
Sgt. Ratana, a highly respected officer with 29 years of service, left a lasting impact on those who knew him. Originally from New Zealand, he was known for his dedication and passion for helping others. Tributes poured in from across the country, with a memorial artwork unveiled in his honor.
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The memories of Sgt. Ratana will continue to inspire colleagues to make a positive difference in the lives of others, ensuring his legacy lives on.
