Phoenix police begin training on new Taser 10 model

Phoenix police officers are being trained on the latest Taser model. The latest model operates at a lower voltage and can be deployed up to 45 feet away, compared to the current range of 25 feet.

“This gives us more ability to communicate with the subject and hopefully not have to have deployments of anything, and we can use our de-escalation tools,” Commander Sara Garza recently told council members.

The new Taser also has flashing lights and an audible warning that can be used before deployment. Garza said training includes ten hours in the classroom with virtual reality headsets and scenario based activities.

“There’s a section on closed quarters and they work in groups for small team tactics. Here they are able to make plans together and work as a team, which is something that we're hoping they use more in the field,” she said, “We're really trying to emphasize making plans as a team when they deploy with the Taser 10.”

Garza said patrol officers should be trained by the end of this summer with the whole department trained by the end of summer 2026.

While there is no requirement for recurring training, the virtual reality headsets will be available to precincts. Councilman Kevin Robinson said he experienced some of the training and hopes officers will take advantage of the virtual reality headsets beyond their initial training.

“So every opportunity we get to use it, we need to. It adds a component of stress,” he said. “There's a lot of things there -the individual moves on you, does all kinds of stuff. And I say this, so I think the police department's aware of it, but I think it's important for everyone else to understand that the training is as close to real life that you can possibly get.”

The five-year Taser contract costs $22 million. Last year, a Department of Justice investigation found Phoenix police use tasers “unreasonably,” often without warning.