Devon and Cornwall Police have confirmed they will have converted to the new Taser X2 within the next 18 months.

Chief Superintendent Jim Nye said: ’The next generation Taser X2 is considered the safest conductive energy device model for both the officer and the subject.

’Alongside this conversion, Devon and Cornwall Police intends to increase the number of officers trained to carry Taser from the current 550, to up to 1,200 by September 2019.

’This represents around 85% of the regular, uniformed front line officers (excluding PCSOs and Special Constables); about 41% of total officer strength.’

The announcement to increase the number of officers who will carry a Taser comes after a two-year review.