UPDATE 1-Taser says some UK police approved for stun guns
Wed Sep 15, 2004 12:18 PM ET
(Updates with details throughout, adds byline)
By Chelsea Emery and Friedel Rother
NEW YORK, Sept 15 (Reuters) - Stun gun maker Taser International Inc. (TASR.O: Quote, Profile, Research) said on Wednesday the United Kingdom, which does not allow most police to carry guns, has approved use of its stun guns for some officers.
"We have a big U.K. endorsement," said Chairman Phil Smith, in an interview with Reuters. "The U.K. has endorsed Taser and is deploying it throughout all forces at the armed officer level."
There are 6,000 officers approved to use arms in the United Kingdom and Taser expects the country will consider allowing other force levels to carry the electronic stun guns as well, according to Smith.
"This is the biggest announcement we've put out in years," said Smith. "This opens up the market and says for all Europeans that this (weapon) is safe to put with your armed officers."
The decision to allow police to use stun guns comes 1-1/2 years after five U.K. police forces began testing the guns, which deliver a 50,000-volt electric shock to temporarily disable a person.
Taser shares were trading at $41.79 at midday.
© Reuters 2004. All Rights Reserved.
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