Government to Trial Tasers in English Prisons Amid Rising Violence
In a bold move to tackle soaring violence behind bars, the UK government is set to launch a groundbreaking pilot project deploying Tasers in England’s prisons for the first time. With prison officers facing an average of 160 attacks a week, this plan targets a sharp boost in safety and control across overcrowded jails.
50,000-Volt Stun Guns to Be Tested on Riot Squads
The pilot will see 50,000-volt Tasers trialled initially by specially trained riot squads. If successful, the stun guns could be rolled out to select prison officers. A government contract notice reveals an £80,000 deal to supply these ‘conducted energy devices’ – commonly known as Tasers.
Mick Pimblett, Assistant General Secretary of the Prison Officers Association, threw his weight behind the move, stating: “Prisons are lawless and it is only right that the Government make every effort to take back control.” He stressed the need to safeguard both staff and inmates against the wave of attacks.
Mixed Reactions: Support and Concerns Ahead of Pilot
The introduction of Tasers into prisons points to a zero-tolerance government stance on inmate violence. Tory Minister Mike Freer described the pilot as an early-stage test of equipment designed to enhance safety.
However, opposition figures aren’t convinced. Labour’s Shadow Justice Secretary Shabana Mahmood blasted the government for “losing control” of the prison estate. Meanwhile, campaigners like the Howard League for Penal Reform warn the focus should be on solving core problems like understaffing and overcrowding – the true drivers of prison violence.
Adding to worries, former prison officer Ian Robinson-Phenix cautioned against Tasers inside volatile prison walls, warning the weapons could be turned on officers themselves.
Next Steps: Ministerial Approval and Safety Upgrades
If the pilot proves effective, ministerial approval will be sought to expand Taser use across England and Wales prisons. The Ministry of Justice confirmed its commitment to a multi-layered approach combining Tasers with body-worn cameras and X-ray body scanners to improve prison security.
This pilot could mark a new chapter in prison safety – but critics argue it’s only a band-aid on much deeper wounds.
