Tucson wrongful death lawsuit questions ketamine usage The family of David Cutler, 23, believes he would still be alive today if first responders gave him water and shade instead of handcuffs and ketamine, which is a powerful sedative and painkiller. and last updated 2021-07-24 01:38:23-04 TUCSON â The family of David Cutler, 23, believes he would still be alive today if first responders gave him water and shade instead of handcuffs and ketamine, which is a powerful sedative and painkiller. Ketamine has become a controversial sedative, which can be used as a chemical restraint for someone experiencing âexcited delirium,â and it is tied to several police in-custody deaths across the nation.