By Alesha Capone
The state Police Association is calling for frontline officers to be equipped with tasers after an incident at Werribee Mercy Hospital during which a policeman was injured.
Police Association Victoria secretary Wayne Gatt said the incident late last month demonstrated the need for all police officers, not just those on critical response teams, to carry tasers while on duty.
Mr Gatt said at present, most frontline police only have the option of using either OC spray or their firearm. He has called on the state government to give police the option of using tasers.
“Tasers are a non-lethal tactical option that will subdue a threat and protect our members at a safe distance,” Mr Gatt said
According to police, a male first constable sustained a gunshot wound after attending Werribee Mercy about 12.15am on Saturday, July 31.
A Victoria Police spokesperson said the first constable’s firearm was discharged following a scuffle.
A single shot struck the officer behind the knee, according to the Police Association.
A nurse and doctor from Werribee Mercy Hospital provided first aid and wrapped the officer’s wound with a tourniquet to stem the bleeding, before he was taken to the Royal Melbourne Hospital (RMH) for treatment.
On Monday, a RMH spokesperson said the first constable had undergone three surgeries.
The spokespersons said the officer remains in “a stable condition”.
Armed Crime Squad detectives have charged a 29-year-old Wyndham Vale man with multiple offences including discharging a firearm reckless to the safety of a police officer, reckless conduct endanger life, resist police and assault police.
A state government spokesperson said: “Our thoughts are with the officer injured in the line of duty, and his family, as he recovers.
“We work closely with Victoria Police and the Police Association to ensure police officers and PSOs have the resources they need to keep Victorians safe.
“In 2018 Victoria Police completed the roll out of Conducted Energy Devices (CEDs), also known as tasers, to 37 rural police stations, the Special Operations Group and the Critical Incident Response Teams.
“We’ll continue to work closely with Victoria Police to inform future investments in equipment and other policing needs.”
