Commissioner’s office scrutinises police officers’ use of Taser

Police and Crime Commissioner Jane Mudd has held her quarterly panel to examine Gwent Police’s use of force when detaining suspects and deploying Taser.

The Commissioner’s legitimacy scrutiny panel brings together members of the Commissioner’s office, Gwent Police’s Independent Advisory Group, senior police officers, and professionals working within the Youth Offending Service to review body-worn camera footage.

During the session, the panel reviewed a dip sample of footage from incidents where Taser was deployed and was asked to provide feedback on each case. The panel identified a few minor learning points, which will be fed back to officers. They also praised officers for the way they handled very difficult and complex situations.

Police and Crime Commissioner Jane Mudd said: “The panel provides an independent layer of scrutiny, highlighting examples of good practice as well as areas where further learning may be required.

“Any opportunities for learning and improvement are shared with senior officers, helping to ensure that processes are carried out in an open, honest and transparent way.

“This work forms part of my ongoing commitment to providing independent oversight, ensuring that the service delivered to the public is of the highest possible standard.”