Taser discharge - Devon and Cornwall Police, July 2017

On 5 July 2017 a Devon and Cornwall Police officer discharged their Taser twice against a man who was wanted on suspicion of domestic related offences. On the second occasion, the officer discharged their Taser while the man was sitting on the outside ledge of an upstairs window. The man fell from the window and sustained injuries to his foot. Neither Taser discharges made contact with the man.

During the investigation, investigators reviewed body-worn video (BWV), obtained statements from several witnesses, as well as an account from the subject of the investigation. They also reviewed both national and local policies, procedures and guidance.

Based on the evidence available, at the end of the investigation, we found no indication that any person serving with the police may have behaved in a manner that would justify the bringing of disciplinary proceedings. We were of the opinion that the officer’s performance may be considered to be unsatisfactory, as they discharged their Taser the first time without warning and without having proper aim at the man.

After reviewing our report, the force agreed to handle this through management action and suggested that the officer spend time with a Taser trainer to watch the BWV of the incident and review tactical options.

We agreed that their proposed actions were appropriate.