ALL Kent officers to get Taser

20 March 2019

Responding to the news that the Chief Constable has decided that Taser will be widely rolled out to all front line officers, Kent Police Federation Chairman Chris Carter said: “This is really good news for all police officers.

“It’s a position and a decision that Kent Police Federation fully supports in the interests of officers being equipped with the right equipment to do their job - and it reduces the chances of them being assaulted.

“According to Government figures, 1,112 Kent Police officers were assaulted on duty last year. That’s more than 20 a week, which is totally unacceptable.

“Very often, often the mere presence of Taser can help to control volatile and violent situations so having all police officers with this equipment in the county should help increase our colleagues’ safety.”

Chris added: “With the escalation of violent crime and knife crime, the increased presence of Taser will help also keep the public safe and assist officers in dealing with those who choose to commit these types of offences.

“Policing has changed considerably, even since the introduction of Taser. Two officers per day are assaulted in Kent by violent thugs, and the scourge of knife crime and county lines criminality from London is increasing the risk all the time.

“It’s great to see Kent Police is investing in its front line officers and supporting them with the essential tools needed to do their job both properly and safely.”