A New South Wales Corrective Service officer has been charged with manslaughter following the shooting death of a Wiradjuri man in custody almost two years ago.
Dwayne Johnstone was handcuffed and shackled when he was fatally shot by the officer, outside Lismore Base Hospital in March, 2019.
The 43 year old had run from two officers who were escorting him from the hospital to a corrective services van.
Mr Johnstone had received treatment at the hospital after appearing to have a seizure in a holding cell at Lismore courthouse.
An inquest into his death was held in Northern New South Wales in October last year, but it was suspended after State Coroner Theresa O'Sullivan referred the matter to the Department of Public Prosecutions.
The New South Wales Police today confirmed that a 57-year-old man presented to Lismore Police Station where he was issued a court notice for manslaughter.
Members of Mr Johnstone's family released a combined statement saying they welcome the charges.
“Dwayne was a much-loved partner, son and stepson. The many people who loved and cared about him are pleased to see some accountability today for his untimely death. We thank everyone who has been involved in getting to this point," it read.
“We will forever remember Dwayne as a funny, bubbly rascal who was a family man at heart. He absolutely adored his partner Kirsty and would go out of his way to help people. He loved animals, enjoyed fishing, and lived life to the fullest."
The officer is due to face Lismore Local Court on March 29.
Dwayne Johnstone with partner Kirsty Pepper Source: Supplied
