Taser-trained police could rise by a thousand

More police in Devon and Cornwall could be armed with Tasers to protect them from assaults. The force is reviewing their use. Credit: ITV West Country

More police in Devon and Cornwall could be armed with Tasers to protect them from assaults.

Figures show that there are currently around 30 attacks on officers each month and now the force is reviewing their use and wants the public's opinion.

It has been seeking public feedback about proposals which could see the number of taser-carrying officers increase in the next two to three years.

The number of officers with Tasers could rise by a thousand in three years Credit: Scott Heppell/PA

It is thought more tasers will better protect communities and help deal with incidents in isolated and rural areas, where there is a threat of harm, and risk to life to the public, and where back-up to police officers may not be close by.

It is also hoped the change may reduce the number of assaults on police officers.

Devon and Cornwall say no decision has been made yet Credit: Rainer Jensen/DPA

More than 700 responses have been received so far after a survey was launched in April, and consultation meetings were held in Cornwall.

Plymouth will get their chance to have their say at a meeting tonight (Wednesday) at the University's Roland Levinsky building, starting at 6.30pm.

The review is expected to make recommendations to the Chief Constable in the autumn.

The review is expected to make recommendations to the Chief Constable in the autumn. Credit: PA