When can police use Tasers (conducted energy devices) in England and Wales?

Tasers, known formally as conducted energy devices (CEDs), are classified as firearms under section 5 of the Firearms Act 1968. Not all police officers in England and Wales are authorised to carry them. Their deployment is governed by College of Policing guidelines and Home Office policy.

The College of Policing guidelines specify that a Taser may be drawn, aimed, or fired only when the officer honestly and reasonably believes that it is necessary for the purpose of self-defence or defence of another, and that deployment is proportionate to the threat. The threat does not need to be armed: a Taser can be used against a person who presents a risk of serious physical harm through their size, strength, or aggressive behaviour, provided the response is proportionate.

The use of a Taser is governed by the same broad principles as any use of force: it must be necessary, proportionate, and the minimum force required. Before firing, officers should give a warning where it is safe to do so and consider whether other options are available. The "red dot" aimed at a person is itself considered a use of force.

There are particular concerns about the use of Tasers on vulnerable people: those with cardiac conditions, pregnant women, very young or very old people, and those in mental health crisis. Guidelines require heightened caution with these groups, and officers should consider whether alternatives are available.

Every deployment of a Taser must be recorded and is subject to review. Injuries caused by Taser use must be reported. Deaths or serious injuries following Taser deployment are subject to mandatory referral to the IOPC.

The number of officers authorised to carry Tasers has increased significantly in recent years as part of the government's programme to arm more officers. However, widespread arming of all officers remains contested policy in England and Wales.

Key Points

• Tasers are classified as firearms and can only be carried by specially authorised officers
• A Taser can only be used when an officer honestly and reasonably believes it is necessary for self-defence or defence of another
• Use must be proportionate to the threat: force does not need to be equal but the response must be proportionate
• Officers should warn before firing where it is safe to do so
• Heightened caution is required with vulnerable people including those with heart conditions or in mental health crisis
• Every deployment must be recorded and reviewed
• Deaths or serious injuries following Taser use must be referred to the IOPC
• The red dot aimed at a person is itself considered a use of force