States To Vote On Police Taser Rollout

Monday, 20 December 2021 17:25

More police officers in Jersey could soon be able to carry tasers, if States Members agree.

It follows an eight-month-long trial permitting officers who've passed a UK course to be issued with the stun guns.

Previously they had only been carried by firearms officers and used only with authorisation.

Jersey's Home Affairs Minister, Deputy Gregory Guida, says the new arrangements for deploying tasers will ensure the force has the correct tools to do their job and keep us safe:

"It is clear from this trial that concerns around a sharp increase in the use of [tasers] by [the States of Jersey Police] under the new deployment model have not materialised. Rather, [they have used tasers] with professionalism and discretion, and in compliance with best practice, to protect the public and ensure officer safety.

"[I have] absolute confidence that extending the arrangements that have been in place since March 2021 will not damage the excellent relationship between our Police Force and the community that they serve. It will, however, ensure our Police Force have the correct tools to do their job and keep us all safe."

As well as completing training, tasers will only be allowed to be used by uniformed officers and should be recorded on body-worn cameras.

States Members will vote on the matter in February.