Year Long TASER Trial Starts in Victoria

After a great deal of controversy, police in Victoria, Australia will be getting TASERs this week. Training will now begin and the weapons will hit the streets on July 1, 2010. The trial, which will take place in the Bendigo and La Trobe regions, will be part of a 12-month experiment. Both officers in traffic management units and uniform units will be trained to use the weapon.

The local Deputy Chief Commissioner will be in charge of the trial. A total of 30 guns will be issued to officers, with one officer per car carrying the TASER and the other a firearm. This will ensure that if the TASER doesn’t subdue a dangerous individual the other officer will still have the option of using a firearm.

Officers must work as pairs if they wish to be issued a TASER. Additionally, the TASERs are fitted with video and audio capabilities to provide complete documentation of any incident.

Acknowledging Risks and Benefits
Victoria Police Commissioner acknowledged both the risks and benefits of employing TASERs for the first time. "There are risks with the conducted energy devices," he answered reporters at the press conference announcing the roll out. He also expressed that a TASER "has the potential to save lives" if used in an appropriate manner.

When the trial reaches its completion in July 2011, the police will decide if they wish to extend the program or end it. There is no intention, at this time, to make TASER use a regular aspect of Melbourne law enforcement.

Slow Introduction Allows for Adjustment
Recognizing the protests issued against the police use of TASERs, police in Australia have opted to introduce them slowly. The extended trial period will provide plenty of data on effectiveness and usage habits. With data confirming a lack of TASER abuse by officers, the public should be more receptive to the weapon once the trial ends.