Police Federation comment on Taser statistics
Responding to figures released today showing an increase in police use of Taser, Steve White, Vice-Chair, Police Federation of England and Wales, says:
“Taser presents an extremely effective means of dealing with the many dangerous situations that officers often face.
“Given that the number of Tasers available to officers increased significantly during the period in question, it’s no surprise that its use also went up.
“It represents a less lethal option than more conventional firearms and can be safer than other methods traditionally used by officers.
“The sight of a Taser can also quickly de-escalate a situation and its worth as a deterrent is backed up by these figures, which show that in three quarters of recorded incidents it was not discharged.
“Police officers must have the proper equipment to protect themselves and the public and we support the wider rollout of Taser to more frontline officers.”
