THERE has been a huge rise in the number of officers trained to use Taser and the number available for use.

In 2009, only 94 officers were trained to use the device and by 2020, that number had risen to 829.

Just under 78 tasers were available for use in 2009. This rose to 541 by 2020.

West Yorkshire Police said the force initially introduced Taster as an additional less lethal option for use by firearms officers.

“With the authority of the Home Secretary the use of Taser was broadened to Specially Trained Units, officers who undertake routine patrol duties in each of our territorial districts and have, as one of a number of options, Taser available to them,” said the force.

Body-worn video cameras are used by officers carrying Taser and its use is monitored.

West Yorkshire Police said: “All Taser trained officers undertake refresher training which incorporates emphasis upon the criteria for use and learning from both local and national sources.

“Every time Taser is used the officers report this fact by completion of a national Use of Force reporting form.

“West Yorkshire Police extracts data from each of these forms and retains this information.”

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