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“Financing is a serious consideration. These devices cost around $1,700 apiece, and then there is the ongoing operational,” Deputy Chief Federico said. “[We will need] a careful discussion within the service about making an appropriate allotment.”

The Toronto Police Service currently has about 500 conducted energy weapons, such as Tasers, in its inventory; there are 2,800 front-line officers, but not all officers will need to carry a stun gun, Deputy Chief Federico said.

Deputy Mayor Norm Kelly said while he supports the broader provincial initiative, “I’m not sure that we should take the very expensive step of giving every officer a Taser.” The idea should be further explored through the budget process, Mr. Kelly said, noting the police services board should not look to the city for extra funds.

“Given the size of their budget, I think the police services board should look to itself first,” he said.

At a news conference inside the coroner’s courts in downtown Toronto, Community Safety Minister Madeleine Meilleur, flanked by high-ranking Ontario police officers, told reporters that the province’s new policy on Tasers would reduce the risk of serious injury during violent confrontations. Every province except Quebec allows front-line officers to carry conducted energy weapons, according to ministry data.

Ms. Meilleur rejected suggestions that the controversial death of 18-year-old Sammy Yatim, shot dead and then Tasered by police on a stopped Toronto streetcar, impacted the timing of Tuesday’s announcement. Mr. Yatim, whose family declined to comment on the new provincial policy, died exactly one month ago.