Scotland's Top Cop Advocates for Wider Taser Use and Face-Scanning Tech

Jo Farrell, Scotland's Chief Constable, has unveiled a new policing strategy that includes a significant increase in Taser-equipped officers and the introduction of facial recognition technology. This plan, set to be implemented over the next three years, aims to modernize Police Scotland and improve its ability to protect both officers and the public.

Currently, only about 1,700 of Scotland's 16,000 police officers are trained to use Tasers. Farrell believes this number is insufficient and plans to expand Taser training across the force. The Chief Constable stated, "I want to see a greater proportion of people carrying Tasers, should they wish to." She emphasized the deterrent effect of these devices, noting their visibility and impact on potential offenders.

The introduction of Tasers in policing dates back to 1974, when NASA researcher Jack Cover developed the device. Interestingly, the name "TASER" is an acronym for "Thomas A. Swift's Electric Rifle," inspired by a science fiction novel.

Farrell also advocated for the use of facial recognition technology in policing, despite concerns raised by privacy campaigners and a Holyrood committee. She argued that the technology's benefits in public safety outweigh potential risks, drawing parallels with the use of AI in healthcare for early cancer detection.

Facial recognition technology has a long history, with its development beginning in the 1960s and the first automated system created in 1973. Its use in policing, however, remains controversial.

The new policing plan includes over 130 milestones to be achieved by March 2027. It also proposes closing some local police stations and increasing the role of civilian staff in crime-fighting efforts. These changes are intended to free up officers for more community-focused work.

Police Scotland, formed in 2013 by merging eight regional forces, is the second-largest police force in the UK. The Scottish Police Federation, established in 1919, supports the increased use of Tasers. A 2021 survey found that 84% of officers wanted the option to carry these devices.

"People across Scotland will welcome the Chief Constable's ambition for a visible police presence in their communities, but that can only happen if SNP ministers stop inflicting extreme cuts to police budgets."

The implementation of this new strategy comes at a time when Police Scotland faces challenges in officer retention and budget constraints. As the force evolves to meet modern policing demands, it builds upon a rich history of law enforcement innovation in the UK, including the introduction of the first police force in Glasgow in 1800 and the establishment of the 999 emergency number in 1937.