Police forced to explain | Auckland News | Local News in Auckland

Police use of force will be put under public scrutiny in downtown Auckland this month.

The Police and Community Tactical Options Reference Group is hosting a public seminar to give insight into how the police are developing use of force tactics in situations of violent crimes.

The reference group is an independent body made up of members from a diverse background including lawyers, community workers and interest groups. The group was set up in 2009 to provide a public forum for debate between police, partners and public interest groups on issues relating to the police use of force procedures.

Group chair Grant Illingworth QC says there is public concern about arming of police with guns and tasers.

"In light of the ongoing debate about the place of firearms in policing in New Zealand, this seminar is a timely opportunity to improve public awareness on the issues facing police when dealing with increasingly violent threats.

"We hope this seminar will help to debunk some of the myths surrounding the challenges frontline police officers face in their duty to protect both the community and themselves," he adds.

The meeting will be introduced by Mr Illingworth, who will be joined by Dr John Locker, manager of the police tactical options research team.

Also speaking will be Superintendent John Rivers and Inspector Jason Ross both from Police National Headquarters.

From the operational services branch of national headqaurters, Senior Sergeant Paddy Hannon will give an update on the use of tasers.

The public seminar is on Wednesday, September 22, from 6pm-8:30pm at the Ellen Melville Hall, Cnr High Street and Freyberg Place, Auckland CBD.