Police probe after man, 82, is hit by Taser

An 82-year-old man required hospital treatment after being tasered by a Metropolitan Police officer, a watchdog said yesterday.

The pensioner was being arrested for carrying an offensive weapon and criminal damage when officers fired the electroshock weapon at him. The Independent Police Complaints Commission (IPCC) has launched an investigation into the incident in Ealing, west London.

The taser was discharged after armed police were called to Islip Gardens on 28 June to reports of a man being threatened.

The 82-year-old was taken into custody at Acton police station but, when he complained of pain, officers called an ambulance and he was taken to Central Middlesex Hospital.

He remained in hospital for several days and has since been discharged, the watchdog said.

IPCC commissioner Rachel Cerfontyne added: "Our investigation will examine whether the use of a Taser in these circumstances was proportionate and appropriate."