New data obtained by BirminghamWorld reveals that West Midlands Police deployed Tasers more than 6,500 times over the past five years, with Birmingham city centre and Wolverhampton recording the highest rates of use per capita. The figures, covering 2019 to 2023, show a significant increase in Taser usage across the region, prompting debate about policing tactics and public safety.
Birmingham and Wolverhampton Lead Taser Deployment
Analysis of police data shows that Birmingham city centre had the highest number of Taser incidents, with 112 deployments per 100,000 residents. Wolverhampton city centre followed closely with 98 per 100,000. Other areas with high rates include West Bromwich, Coventry city centre, and parts of Handsworth. The data includes all instances where a Taser was drawn, aimed, or fired, regardless of whether it was used to subdue a suspect.
Across the West Midlands, Taser use rose steadily from 1,102 incidents in 2019 to 1,487 in 2023, a 35% increase. The majority of deployments involved white suspects (62%), while black suspects accounted for 18% and Asian suspects 12%. The figures also show that Tasers were used in incidents involving mental health crises in approximately 15% of cases.
Police Defend Taser Use Amid Concerns
West Midlands Police defended the use of Tasers, stating they are a vital tool for protecting officers and the public. A force spokesperson said: "Tasers are used proportionately and only when necessary to prevent harm. Each deployment is subject to rigorous scrutiny." However, campaign groups have raised concerns about the disproportionate impact on ethnic minorities and people with mental health issues.
According to the data, the number of times a Taser was fired (rather than just drawn or aimed) increased from 142 in 2019 to 201 in 2023. The force says that in most cases, the mere presence of a Taser is enough to de-escalate a situation.
Geographic Distribution and Trends
The mapping of Taser incidents reveals clusters in urban centres and areas with higher crime rates. Outside Birmingham and Wolverhampton, areas such as Sandwell, Walsall, and Dudley also saw notable numbers of deployments. In contrast, rural areas like Solihull and the Meriden gap had significantly lower rates.
Police and crime commissioner Simon Foster acknowledged the data but stressed that Taser use is reviewed regularly. "We must ensure that any use of force is lawful, necessary, and proportionate," he said. The data comes as the force continues to equip more officers with Tasers, with over 2,000 now trained to use them.
Impact on Communities
The findings have sparked debate among community leaders. A spokesperson for the Birmingham Race Action Group said: "While we understand the need for police to have tools to protect themselves, the data shows a clear disparity in how Tasers are used against black and Asian people. We call for greater transparency and independent oversight."
In response, West Midlands Police said they are committed to building trust and have implemented measures to monitor Taser use, including body-worn video footage review and mandatory reporting. The force also noted that the number of complaints about Taser use has remained low, with fewer than 50 formal complaints over the five-year period.
