A Taser is a weapon capable of discharging an electrical current and is classified as a prohibited firearm. It is therefore an offence to possess, purchase, acquire, manufacture, sell or transfer such a weapon, without lawful authority. Lawful authority is only granted to bodies such as the Police, and would never cover a member of the general public. Tasers should therefore not be used or in the possession of any member of the public.
Tasers can be legally used by the Police, however they are only used by highly-trained officers, who can only use them when and where they are authorised to do so. All Taser use by Police officers is monitored and reported.
For further information in relation to legal self defence products, see SQ589.