NSW Officers Jailed for Assaulting Woman During Welfare Check

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Two New South Wales police officers have been sentenced to prison after assaulting a woman during a welfare check in Sydney’s west.

Nathan Black, 28, and Timothy John Trautsch, 30, were each sentenced to three years behind bars for their roles in an incident involving a 48-year-old woman who was experiencing a mental health episode. The assault occurred on January 22, 2023, in an industrial cul-de-sac in Sydney’s western suburbs.

The officers had responded to a call to assist the woman, who was found naked at the scene. They initially attempted to place her into an ambulance for medical care. However, during the course of the 18-minute interaction, both officers repeatedly punched, kicked, and used pepper spray on the woman, as shown in photographic evidence presented to Penrith District Court.

The victim’s identity has been withheld for legal reasons.

Judge Graham Turnbull described the conduct as “committed and disgraceful,” highlighting the severity and persistence of the officers’ actions. He noted that the attack escalated significantly beyond what was appropriate, particularly given the woman’s vulnerable state.

The sentencing took place on July 10, 2025, at Penrith District Court, where both former officers were present.

The case has drawn attention to the treatment of individuals with mental health conditions during police interventions, particularly in high-pressure situations. Authorities have not confirmed whether further disciplinary actions or policy reviews will follow the court’s ruling.

The NSW Police Force has not yet released an official statement regarding the sentencing.