Police are evaluating more advanced Taser technology as the organisation scopes the potential replacement of its current fleet.
Police are training 20 Wellington District staff in the use of the X2 Taser, which is being followed by an operational evaluation.
Superintendent Barry Taylor, National Manager Operations, says the evaluation is part of scoping work begun last year to look at the potential replacement of its current operational fleet of 908 Taser X26's with the more current X2 model. Two X2 units will be used in the evaluation.
“The Taser X2 works in exactly the same way as the current model and delivers the same benefits,” Supt. Taylor says. “However, the X2 technology does have some important enhancements that we want to evaluate. This includes improved high-definition colour camera technology to ensure accurate recording of any discharge, and the ability to fire two cartridges instead of one.
“Assuming the evaluation is successful, the advantage of the X2 is that it would not only provide greater certainty and security for Police staff when they confront violent and dangerous offenders, but would also help improve public safety by giving Police added capacity to de-escalate high risk situations, including those involving more than one offender.”
Also being evaluated are officer-operated body cameras, which will be worn by staff using the X2 Taser. The purpose of this is to assist in providing additional operational context in situations where the X2 may be used.
Since the Taser was rolled out nationally in March 2010, it has proved invaluable in de-escalating more than 1500 high-risk situations which could have otherwise ended in serious harm or worse, Supt. Taylor says.
“There’s no question that the introduction of the Taser has been a highly successful tool in minimising risk and maximising safety for all involved.”
Supt. Taylor says use of Taser and other Police tactical options will continue to be supported by robust tactical training and oversight by independent third parties.
ENDS
Media contact: Kris McGehan ph 027 222 3638.
Photo caption: Police is currently evaluating the more advanced X2 Taser (pictured bottom right) as it scopes the potential replacement of its current fleet of X26 tasers.
