Number of Taser-trained officers to be doubled

SOUTH Wales Police is to double its number of Taser-trained officers in the next year, with plans for even more the following year.

The move comes following a wide-ranging review by Chief Constable Matt Jukes, initiated in spring 2018, that looked into the best ways for police officers to protect the public and themselves in the face of challenges including assaults on officers, as well as the national rise in knife crime and “County Lines”.

South Wales Police will now increase its proportion of Taser-trained officers from 10% of all officers to 20% in the next 12 months.

It means an additional 281 officers will be trained to cover the force area, with a similar increase planned for the year after.

The decision has been reviewed and strongly endorsed by the Police and Crime Commissioner Alun Michael.

Commenting on the decision, Mr Michael said: “I am satisfied that the Chief Constable’s decision is in the public interest in every way.

“The use of a Taser is often misunderstood and misrepresented so it’s important to stress that – properly used – it is a means of preventing injury, not of causing injury.

“Tasers are frequently used to prevent violence against police officers but also against members of the public and individuals who need to be restrained.

“I have looked specifically at the way in which Tasers are used by South Wales Police as part of my role in holding the Chief Constable to account for operational policing.

“As a result, I am very confident that the use of Taser by our officers is proportionate and frequently prevents harm.”