Death sparks Taser review

POLICE Scotland is to review its use of Tasers after the death of a Premier League footballer shot by one of the controversial stun guns in England.

Ex-Aston Villa striker Dalian Atkinson, 48, died in hospital on August 15 after he was allegedly blasted at least three times with the 50,000-volt weapon after officers had been called to the home of Atkinson’s elderly father in Telford, Shropshire, following an altercation.

Mr Atkinson had regular dialysis after suffering kidney failure and his family said he may have had a weakened heart. Two police officers are now under investigation.

Assistant Chief Constable Ruaraidh Nicolson said yesterday that Tasers were only used by trained firearms officers in Scotland, while in England they are carried by officers on routine duties. He said: ‘We will review Tasers in light of what happened.’