TASERS can be used in prisons for the first time from today under a trial to stamp out violence.
The National Tactical Response Group, an elite squad of officers, are now free to use the stun devices in dangerous situations such as hostage-taking and riots.
PAJustice Secretary Shabana Mahmood hinted Tasers could be rolled out[/caption]
Justice Secretary Shabana Mahmood hinted the Tasers could be rolled out to local teams if the pilot works.
She told The Sun: “Violence in our prisons has been far too high for far too long.
“I inherited a situation with completely unacceptable levels of violence.
“All of my early conversations with staff and staff representatives have been about prison officer safety.”
There were a record 10,605 assaults on jail staff last year, up 15 per cent in a year.
Ms Mahmood added: “I’m not willing to tolerate that.”
Prison officers are also getting new protective body armour.
And ramping up the number of full lockdown searches in high-security jails to stop contraband getting through.
A £40 million package was announced last month to boost security – including £10 million for anti-drone measures like netting and reinforced windows.
PATasers can be used in prisons for the first time from today under a trial to stamp out violence[/caption]
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