Senedd hears calls for ban on police pointing Tasers at children

HUMAN rights experts called for a ban on the “traumatising” use of Tasers against children by police, warning the “unacceptable” use of force runs contrary to children’s rights.

- By CHRIS HAINES ICNN Senedd Reporter

Rhian Croke, of the Children’s Legal Centre Wales, said mounting evidence shows systemic discrimination - with black, disabled and poorer children more likely to be the target.

Dr Croke expressed concerns about the UK Government potentially authorising the use, including on children, of Taser 10 - a new “more powerful” model - in the weeks ahead.

She warned of increased risks of physical harm and psychological trauma, with children describing Tasers as frightening, painful and traumatising - even when not discharged.

Nearly a quarter of recorded Taser use on children in Wales and England involved black boys aged between 11 and 17, according to a briefing for Senedd members.