People experiencing mental distress may be subjected to more use of Tasers than the general population. Tasers are used in a range of settings including public places, private residences and healthcare facilities. WHAT THIS PAPER ADDS?: Police use of Tasers in mental health crises is relatively common. Following a number of deaths and numerous reports of injuries, concerns have been raised about the safety of Tasers. People experiencing mental distress have been subjected to Tasers as part of the police response. Police use a continuum of responses when managing situations involving agitation, aggression and behavioural problems. WHAT IS KNOWN ABOUT THE SUBJECT?: People experiencing mental distress have a high rate of contact with police in community crisis events.
