Stun gun deployment

Acting Assistant Commissioner (Crime and Operations), Geoffrey Smith, said an operational debrief into the shooting at Beechford yesterday will consider whether there were other less lethal options that may have been effective in the circumstances.

“The debrief will consider all of the circumstances of the incident, including the use and effectiveness of OC Spray and stun guns,” he said.

“Any recommendations arising from the debrief will be considered within the context and findings of a comprehensive review already conducted which had determined that Tasmania Police will not deploy stun guns more broadly at this time.”

Currently Special Operations Group officers are trained in and deployed with stun guns.

“We understand that a police officer’s job is a difficult one, and are constantly looking at methods and practices that will provide them with the equipment required to perform their duties safely,” Acting Assistant Commissioner Smith said.

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