Police officers across England and Wales are to receive specific training on the implications of using a Taser in the presence of a child.
The announcement follows an investigation by the The Independent Office for Police Conduct (IOPC) into and incident in Stretford whena man who was repeatedly Tasered during his arrest by Greater Manchester Police (GMP) officers on a petrol station forecourt while a five-year-old child was with him.
The incident on Chester Road back in 2020 which was filmed saw NHS worker, Ziggy Desmond Mombeyarara, detained by police and taken down by a cop with a Taser stun gun in front of his screaming five-year-old son after he had been spotted speeding
IOPC Regional Director Amanda Rowe said: “The public are understandably concerned about how and when Tasers are used by the police. This was highlighted in this incident, which was deeply distressing to those involved and caused significant concern within the local community.
“The disproportionate use of Taser against Black people, which is seen nationally, means it is especially important for the police to be able to justify the use of Taser in cases like this.
“While the evidence in this investigation showed officers had acted in accordance with the relevant policies, guidance and procedures, we identified ways the force could improve the response to similar situations in future and welcome the progress made to address them.
“It is particularly pleasing that national training for officers equipped with Tasers will now include specific learning to assist in cases where a child is present.
“There is no doubt Tasers are a valuable tool for keeping both the public and police safe in dangerous circumstances but the public needs to be reassured it is being used appropriately. Our recommendations are aimed at ensuring officers are equipped to make the right decisions and that communities can better understand them.”
