The number of taser trained police officers across Devon and Cornwall is to be reviewed with as part of a new project.

Devon and Cornwall Police are seeking public feedback on plans which could see the number of taser carrying officers across the Force increase over the next two to three years.

There are currently 530 taser trained (non-firearms) officers in the Force, but under new plans, this could increase to around 1,000 by 2018.

The move is being considered as a way of better protecting communities and dealing with incidents in more isolated and rural areas where there is threat of harm and risk to life of the public and back up to police officers may not be close by.

It is also hoped the move will reduce the number of assaults on police officers – currently around 30 incidents a month. Since January 1 2016, there has already been 87 assaults recorded against officers, 4 resulting in serious injury. 

Between January 2011 and October 2015, Devon and Cornwall officer drew tasers during incidents on 1,250 occasions – that equates to 0.1% of the 1.3 million incidents attended during this time.  But they only fired Taser on 306 occasions, at just 0.02% of all incidents.

he review is expected to make recommendations to the Chief Constable in the autumn.