POLICE officers who needed to use force were most likely to take physical hold of someone or hold them on the ground, new figures have shown. 

It is the first time that West Mercia Police has released figures on the use of force by its officers.

The figures, in support of the Home Office Annual Data Review (ADR) requirement, cover tactics such as officers taking hold of someone’s arm, using handcuffs, deploying a police dog and using a baton, irritant spray, Taser or firearm.

The most recorded tactic between April and June was unarmed skills which largely involves taking physical hold of someone or holding someone on the ground. This was closely followed by handcuffing.

Chief Superintendent Steve Cullen, head of operations at West Mercia Police, said: "As a police service we have a duty to protect people from harm and these techniques are in place to resolve dangerous situations whilst protecting the public at the scene, the individual under arrest and the officers in attendance.

"Police officers are confronted with difficult situations every day.

"They walk towards danger when others walk away.

"They must think and act quickly and we ensure they are given the tools and training they need to help them make dynamic decisions on the actions needed to keep people safe.

"This data gives the public an insight into these challenges."

The use of force was most used for the protection of people, including the subject of the arrest, the public and officers as well as for the actual arrest.

Every time an officer is compelled to use force, each officer attending the incident completes a record of their actions. Therefore, there may be more than one record linked to the same incident.

Multiple incidents involving the same person are also recorded separately.

Police and Crime Commissioner, John Campion said: “The investments I’ve already made, such as the rollout of body worn video, deliver increased transparency.

"The publication of use of force data is one further step, assuring the public that their police service are meeting national standards, acting in a fair and appropriate way and taking action should any officer fall below the standard expected.

“Police officers are faced with many challenging and dangerous situations and it’s important to remember that these are ordinary people, doing an extraordinary role.

“Our communities should feel reassured, that West Mercia Police officers are acting with integrity, professionalism and accountability as they continue to keep the public safe."