Video reignites taser debate in New Zealand

November 15, 2007

Video of Canadian police tasering a man to death is bound to re-open debate on the use of the weapon in New Zealand. A decision is expected in a few weeks after a year of trailling the taser across the country.

The trial ended in August and it is expected a report on the pilot will be presented to the police commissioner before Christmas. Statistics reveal there were 120 incidents were tasers were presented during the trial, but they were only discharged 19 times. The trial has stirred up much controversy. Critics argue that they are too dangerous.

But New Zealand First's police spokesman is calling for police to be issued with tasers now. And the Police Association say tasers are essential in the increasingly violent atmosphere police have to deal with.