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Abstract

This dissertation will explore the use of Taser by police in England and Wales, in conjunction with the current national guidelines, to explore whether the notion of mission creep is valid or whether the introduction of Taser could better be described as mission accomplished. Following the introduction of Taser as a less-lethal tactical force option into policing in England and Wales in 2003, a review found the device to be an effective means of gaining compliance and resolving potentially violent situations with less need to resort to lethal force. Despite the advantageous benefits that the device can offer, including the decreased likelihood of injury to both police officers and suspects, there have been calls that the use of the device might constitute ‘mission creep’. In the form of a literature review, this dissertation will critically discuss the rollout of Taser into routine frontline policing in England and Wales since 2003 and suggest that although the proliferation of Taser has led to a marked increase in usage, it remains in line with the national guidelines. The notion of mission creep therefore appears to be misleading when considered in conjunction with the guidelines. This dissertation will conclude that the use of Taser by police in England and Wales is in fact mission accomplished – Taser has proven to be an effective less-lethal tactical option, bridging the operational gap between the baton and the gun. 

Course: Crime and Criminology - BSc (Hons) - C2113P

Date Deposited: 2022-09-21

URI/permalink: https://library.port.ac.uk/dissert/dis14027.html