DOZENS more Hampshire Police officers are to be trained to use Tasers.
Some 60 front line officers will learn to use the equipment on top of the 300 who already carry them.
The £20,000 scheme follows the decision to arm more officers after the force’s rank and file raised concerns about their safety.
Hampshire Constabulary Chief Superintendent Scott Chilton said: “We recognise that frontline officers require necessary equipment to manage a range of difficult and dangerous circumstances.
“The experiences of using Tasers show they can be an effective option for calming and resolving situations safely with less risk of serious injury to officers, suspects, victims, and other members of the public.
“The force has listened and acted upon the views of officers, whom in a recent Police Federation survey supported an increase in access to Tasers.”
He added: “The use of Taser across Hampshire and the Isle of Wight reflects the rigorous and consistent training completed by officers specifically selected as meeting the high standard required to carry one.”
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