Police assure public over electric guns (From Gazette Series)

Police assure public over electric guns

DURSLEY'S police chief has moved to reassure the public about the introduction of electric stun guns to the Gloucestershire Constabulary.

The Taser guns, which carry a 50,000-volt charge and have been responsible for a number of deaths in America, will be issued to the force's firearms officers.

When used, the high-level current immobilises the target person, although the low amperage of the weapon means that they only lose muscle control rather than being injured.

A pair of barbs is fired, which attach to skin or clothing and interfere with the body's neuromuscular system. There is also a stun mode that does not require the firing of the barbs.

However, use of the Taser is expected to be minimal, especially within the Dursley INA.

Insp Paul Donovan, of Dursley police, said: "The Taser is a less lethal option than firing an orthodox gun. They will only be used in appropriate situations by firearms officers and with the proper authority.

"It will only be used as regularly as firearms usually are - we will not, for example, be using them to sort out late-night drunken disorder in the centre of Dursley."

There was similar public concern over the use of baton guns in 2002 but they have only been used twice since their introduction to the force.

Police took delivery of the Tasers in February and firearms officers have undergone rigorous training and assessment in their use since then.

Originally used in the United States in the late 1960s, Tasers were first trialled in Britain in April 2003.

Forces from Thames Valley, Northamptonshire, Lincolnshire, North Wales and the Metropolitan Police were involved in the trial.

Last September the Home Office announced that all firearms officers in England and Wales would be able to use the weapons as part of a nationwide trial.

Assistant Chief Constable (Operations) Mark Polin said: "Taser is for dealing with situations involving people armed with firearms and other weapons, who have access to such weapons or who pose a serious danger.

"We will be following Taser guidelines drawn up by the Association of Chief Police Officers and will refer any incidents involving use of Taser to the Independent Police Complaints Commission for information.

"We can reassure the public that Taser has been fully tested and inspected by the Home Office and its use will be carefully monitored and supervised."