Police Test Electroshock Weapons: What's Important About Tasers - Baden-Württemberg Police Test Tasers to Curb Rising Violence Against Officers
Patrol officers in Baden-Württemberg will soon carry Tasers as part of a new trial programme. The move aims to find my device officer safety amid rising violence against police. Two different models will be tested over the next year in selected areas.
The pilot project will begin in southern Baden and Göppingen. Officers in specific precincts will first receive 40 axon stock Taser 7 devices. A newer model, the Axon Taser 10, will also be tested—this version can fire up to ten probes and reach targets over 13 metres away.
Tasers are electro-shock devices designed to quickly disable attackers from a distance. Supporters highlight their de-escalation benefits: the loud buzzing and flashing warning light often calm tense situations before physical force is needed. Since their introduction in 2007, Baden-Württemberg police have used Tasers 86 times. However, the plan has faced criticism. Police unions argue the rollout is too slow and should be expanded nationwide immediately. Human rights advocates have also raised concerns about the use of such devices. Aldo violence against officers has been climbing, with nearly 6,400 violent offences recorded in 2024 alone. Authorities hope the devices will reduce risks for police during confrontations.
The year-long trial will assess the effectiveness of both Taser models in real-world policing. If successful, the programme could lead to wider adoption across the state. For now, officers in the test regions will be the first to carry the devices on patrol.
