Chief Commissioner Ken Lay has approved a phased rollout of tasers, also called conducted energy devices, with Ballarat and Geelong the first cities to receive new stun guns.

Deputy Commissioner Kieran Walshe said officers in Bendigo and Morwell, where a 12-month trial was conducted, would retain their existing tasers.

“The results of that trial have now been extensively reviewed, assessed and analysed to ensure the devices were used appropriately and that they were an effective use of force option for regional police,” he said.

“The Chief Commissioner has signed off on a phased rollout across Victoria, with Geelong and Ballarat police expected to have access to 30 CEDs from mid-year.’’

Ballarat and Geelong officers will receive a new stun gun, the Taser X2, while Bendigo officers keep the trial model.

The new taser has updated technology that enhances data logging, improved audio and visual features and a shutdown cycle.

The Bendigo and Morwell trial started in July 2010.

Officers drew their tasers 16 times and discharged them once.

“The trial established that the visible presence of the CED alone was enough to defuse some volatile situations involving armed, uncooperative offenders,” Deputy Commissioner Walshe said.

Ballarat and Geelong uniform and highway patrol officers will undergo taser training.

“Only one police member out of a two-person crew carries the CED throughout the shift. This allows one member to draw and potentially use the taser, while the second member can cover with an alternative tactical option,” Deputy Commissioner Walshe said.

“The Victorian community can be assured that we have strict accountability processes in place and we will continue to closely monitor the use of CEDs as a use of force tactical option.”