PR 287: UNION WELCOMES TASER TRIAL IN PRISONS

The union representing the UK's 35,000 prison officers has welcomed the trial introduction of tasers in prisons.  

The move comes against a backdrop of soaring violence across the prison estate and following the terror attack on officers at Frankland Prison in County Durham. 

Recent research also suggests the rising numbers of prison officers exposed to violence are suffering from post-traumatic stress disorder.  

Steve Gillan POA General Secretary said: 

“The level of violence and disorder in the UK’s prisons is completely unacceptable.  

The POA has campaigned vociferously for the introduction of protective equipment such as stab vests, PAVA spray and tasers. I am therefore very pleased this taser trial is going ahead. 

We must return security, order and discipline to our jails.” 

Mark Fairhurst, national chairman of the POA, said: 

"Prisons have been overcrowded for decades, which leads to a lack of activity spaces for prisoners leading to boredom, drug abuse and violence.

"Staff must be equipped with the personal protective equipment they need to quell violence and prevent life-changing injuries."

 

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For further information, contact:

POA Press Office                                                 020 8803 0255 Option 7