Two small metal barbs in grey and yellow cases mounted on wooden spatulas.
Use
To use to train officers in the use of a Taser
Context
In 2003 the Uk Police began to trail the use of Taser incapacitant stun guns. These two fire prongs at a person which are attached by wires to the gun and can deliver electric shocks, rendering a suspect temporarily incapacitated so that they can be safely restrained. The Tasers have laser sights to make targeting easier. The trials were successful and in September 2004 the Home Office authorised the use of Tasers authorised police firearms officers. They were first issued by Sussex Police in 2005.
The rationale behind their use was that the police needed a non lethal alternative to firearms in circumstances where incapacitant spray was ineffective or inappropriate.
These two mounted barbs were used in training to demonstrate to officers the projectiles that are fired from a Taser and how sharp they are. These barbs remain connected to the actual Taser by two thin wires which are used to administer an electrical shock. Even though Taser is regarded as non lethal, there is still the potential for serious injury if they hit an eye, which is why officers need to be made aware of how sharp the barbs are. If once discharge the barbs remain attached to an individual after subsequent restraint, it is recommended that they are removed by a medical professional and the person examined.
