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Review
. 2023 Feb;40(2):147-150.
doi: 10.1136/emermed-2022-212521. Epub 2022 Jul 19.

The use of TASER devices in UK policing: an update for clinicians following the recent introduction of the TASER 7

Anthony Bleetman  1 , Alan E Hepper  2 , Robert D Sheridan  2
Affiliations
Review

The use of TASER devices in UK policing: an update for clinicians following the recent introduction of the TASER 7

Anthony Bleetman et al. Emerg Med J. 2023 Feb.

Abstract

Taser was introduced into UK policing in 2003 to bridge the operational gap between use of incapacitant sprays and firearms. Use of force reporting in the UK indicates that Taser is relatively safe provided that it is used lawfully. Taser use can result in injuries and has been implicated in a small number of deaths. The latest version of the weapon, the TASER 7, has entered UK policing. The TASER 7 uses a novel probe that has implications for the medical community. A review of Taser medical effects and probe removal for TASER 7 are presented.

Keywords: Forensic Medicine; assessment; pre-hospital; trauma; violence.

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Conflict of interest statement

Competing interests: None declared.

Figures

Figure 1
Figure 1
TASER X2 probe: a one-piece projectile.
Figure 2
Figure 2
TASER 7 probe—intact.
Figure 3
Figure 3
TASER 7 probe separated (upper) and intact (lower).
Figure 4
Figure 4
An intact TASER 7 probe with its shaft fully embedded in tissue.
Figure 5
Figure 5
Tissue-embedded TASER 7 probe after separation of the cylindrical probe body from the shaft-bearing frontal assembly.
Figure 6
Figure 6
Probe removal tool.
Figure 7
Figure 7
TASER 7 probe showing the deformed shaft after striking an underlying rib.
See this image and copyright information in PMC

References

    1. Ho J, Dawes D, Miner J, et al. . Conducted electrical weapon incapacitation during a goal-directed task as a function of probe spread. Forensic Sci Med Pathol 2012;8:358–66. 10.1007/s12024-012-9346-x - DOI - PubMed
    1. Police use of force statistics, England and Wales: April 2020 to March 2021. Available: https://www.gov.uk/government/statistics/police-use-of-force-statistics-...
    1. DOMILL statement on the medical implications of use of the Taser X26 and M26 Less-Lethal systems on children and vulnerable adults. Available: http://data.parliament.uk/DepositedPapers/Files/DEP2012-0729/96605%20Lib... [Accessed Jan 2012].
    1. Jury finds restraint by Warwickshire police contributed to death of Darren Cumberbatch. Available: https://www.inquest.org.uk/darren-cumberbatch
    1. Inquest finds use of Taser by Devon and Cornwall police contributed to death of mARC Cole when experiencing paranoia. Available: https://www.inquest.org.uk/marc-cole-close

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