The two officers involved are being treated as witnesses by the IOPC investigation and remain on full duties. The investigation will examine whether the use of force was necessary and proportionate. The below table shows how often Taser has been used within Lancashire from 1 st January to the 31 st December for each calendar year. The data for 2017 shows Taser use from 1 st January 2017 to 31st March 2017. The hype around plasma lighters is not only rooted in the “coolness” factor of the technology, but in the sense that as a primary or secondary combustion option, it works well in most situations.

All of our officers selected to use Taser must pass an intensive four-day training course before becoming qualified Taser operators. Although this seems academic, the difference in potential outcome is considerable, as a charge under 5(1A)(a) or 45(2)(a) carries minimum mandatory sentencing.

Simply put, the lighter pushes a high voltage current between two ceramic nodes that create a really hot arc of electricity. It’s not clear what will happen to the Minnesota officer, who has been put on administrative leave following the “accidental discharge that resulted in the tragic death of Mr. Wright,” Brooklyn Center Police Chief Tim Gannon said.

UK law specifies that possession of a non-lethal taser is a criminal offence and, should the taser be disguised as another object such as a torch, the offence carries a minimum term of imprisonment of 5 years. Our investigators continue to gather and analyse key evidence, including footage recorded at the scene and initial accounts from officers and members of the public. As technology evolves so does the law. With an increasing body of forensic knowledge, it is now possible to argue that an item is not disguised, rather it is dual purpose.

A Taser is usually held in a holster on an officer's body armour but it can be carried in other positions, along with other officer safety equipment. It's designed to stand out so is easy to spot and identify. An IOPC spokesperson confirmed that the firelighter was recovered by police from the bridge later the same day, and added: “We are not currently investigating the statements issued by the MPS after the incident. Items such as novelty torches with a taser function are not permitted to be brought into the UK. Often, people have no idea of this additional function, simply purchasing the novelty torch on holiday and bringing it home in their luggage, only to be told upon arrival at the airport that they are committing a criminal offence. What is the punishment for possession of a taser in the UK?