Police accept the findings of an Independent Police Conduct Authority investigation into the use of a Taser on a Hokitika man in April 2015.
The man was Tasered twice when fleeing Police after making threats against members of the public earlier in the evening.
The IPCA investigation found the first use of the Taser was not unlawful despite being in breach of Police policy. In regard to the second Tasering the investigation found this was unjustified.
“Our officers were facing a volatile situation with an offender who was considered violent, unpredictable, was running from Police and therefore was a risk to the public and police. The officers involved completed a risk assessment and determined that the use of the Taser to detain the offender was the most effective course of action to protect the community,” said Superintendent Karyn Malthus, Tasman District Commander.
“Police accept one officer was in error in regard to the decision to use the Taser a second time. In addition, other officers made errors of judgement in not providing sufficient medical care after the event and in reviewing the incident,” said Superintendent Malthus.
An internal review process is currently under way in regard to the discharging of the Taser. As this is an ongoing employment investigation Police are unable to comment further on that aspect.
In addition to this Police have spoken with the other staff involved and, where appropriate, have had a professional discussion with those individuals to ensure that proper processes and policy are followed in after care and situation reviews.
The IPCA has recommended that Police review their Taser policy. Police accept this recommendation and a review of the policy in regard to aspects of the policy that relate to this incident is underway.
ENDS
Issued by Police Media Centre