New taser technology put to the test as Barrie police undergo training

Police officers experience new taser technology Police officers in Barrie get firsthand experience with new taser technology.

Police officers in Barrie participated in a jolting experience on Monday as they voluntarily felt the effects of a new conducted energy weapon during an intensive training session.

The training is part of a province-wide effort to ensure officers are properly prepared to use the new devices while on duty.

Barrie police officers were joined by members from several other Ontario police services for training on the new tool.

Barrie Police Services training instructor Const. Lauren Sawicki knows first-hand the realities of using such devices in the field, and today, volunteered to feel its effectiveness.

“You couldn’t flex, you couldn’t move, it was keeping you in perfect position, and then as soon as it let up it was a giant exhale,” she described.

Nearly 200 new units ordered by Barrie police cost almost half a million dollars.

Police say the devices offer improved safety and increased options for officers when dealing with escalating situations.

David Volpato with Axon, the company that develops the stun guns, highlighted the advantages of the upgraded technology.

“The main key differences with respect to the Taser 10 is it has actually 10 individually loaded probes so there are 10 opportunities for success and an extended range of 45 feet,” said Volpato. “So, we are giving officers an extra 20 feet to de-escalate a situation before having to use actual force.”

“Stats show that it is very effective,” said Const. Mark Rybiski. “Even without deployment of the (device) we are seeing compliance from members of the public.”

The conducted energy weapon has a life span of about five years and is expected to be available to trained Barrie police officers in the new year.