Police are appealing for information following an attempted robbery in Kingsway on Friday evening.
The incident happened between 6.45pm and 6.50pm on Friday, March 11.
The victim, a 30-year-old man from Gloucester, was walking in Valley Gardens when he was approached by a man who was with a woman. The man asked the victim for money and when the victim ignored him, pulled out what is described as a ‘mini taser’ from his sock.
The victim carried on walking away from the man, telling him he would phone the police. The offender held the taser out but did not try to use it on the victim.
Armed officers were deployed to carry out a search of the area but did not detain anyone.
The offender is described as a black man, in his 20s, 5ft 10ins tall, and of proportionate build. He was wearing a light-coloured hooded top.
The woman he was with is described as being in her 20s and of mixed race.
Detective Inspector Rich Pegler, of the Gloucester Priority Policing Team, said: “We need anyone who saw this incident to come forward.
“We cannot say it was a taser 100% but from the victim’s description it appears similar. A taser is considered a firearm and are illegal so we would encourage local people to report those who may possess one.
“The offender called the victim by name which suggests the attack was quite specific and we are now looking to establish a motive as he must know him from previous dealings locally.
“This is the first case in Gloucester I can recall of someone using a taser to threaten someone in this way and I can reassure people the area remains a safe place to live.”
Anyone with information should call 0845 090 1234, or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111, quoting incident 418 of March 11.
