Resistance to use of tasers

Taser guns at first glance might seem a humane alternative to shooting someone but this is a complete misconception, says ADLS President Gary Gotlieb.

Mr Gotlieb, was commenting on a report issued by the society’s Mental Health & Disability Law Committee drawing attention to a planned Police trial of the taser stun gun in September.

The report explains that the taser is a gun which fires two steel barbs attached to wires which pierce the skin then deliver a 50,000 volt electric shock to the victim. Around 150 people have died worldwide since the introduction of the taser and Police have stated that mental health patients are a likely target for the taser.

Mr Gotlieb says he echoes the committee’s concerns about the introduction of tasers in view of the “cavalier” approach to pepper spray by some police officers.

“Several court judgments have gone against the Police because individual officers did not follow the policy guidelines for the use of pepper spray,” said Mr Gotlieb.

“In view of the misuse of pepper spray, we have every right to be concerned about tasers being used against members of the public - and especially against mental health patients.” Mr Gotlieb says he’s seen videos of tasers being used and they are “quite frightening”.

Mental health nurses are among the groups opposing the use of tasers along with Duly Authorised Officers (DOAs) who are frequently involved in joint operations with police.

A campaign against the taser calls for a halt to the “trial” pending an independent inquiry. The campaign is headed by Sir Paul Reeves and Rodney Harrison QC and has its own website which can be accessed via Google by inserting “Campaign against the taser”.
Those opposed to tasers can sign online or are being invited to write to the Minister of Police, Annette King.

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