NCJ Number
210717
Date Published
May 2005
Length
31 pages
Annotation
This report describes the policies and procedures related to use-of-force training, operations, and safety and examines laws specifically addressing the use of Tasers.
Abstract
Tasers are currently in use by approximately 18,000 law enforcement agencies in the United States and the growing popularity of less-than-lethal weapons by police officers virtually assures their increased use by the law enforcement community. Seven law enforcement agencies were contacted for this study regarding their use-of-force policies, training requirements, operational protocols, and safety procedures for Tasers. All seven agencies reported including specific policies for Taser use in their existing use-of-force policies to provide officers with specific guidance on the circumstances in which they may be lawfully used. Taser training is required of all authorized Taser users and is considered imperative in conveying the proper use of the weapon. Particular policies include the requirements of daily Taser inspections, proper safeguards, and testing either weekly or at the beginning of an officer’s shift. Safety procedures prohibit the use of Tasers on children or pregnant women and prohibit their use near bystanders or flammable liquids. Procedures also identify emergency protocols for individuals who have been hit with a Taser. Laws concerning the use of Tasers vary and often depend upon whether they are classified as a weapon or not; specific examples are offered. The report concludes that the use of Tasers is becoming more widespread, especially by non-law enforcement persons, which makes training and clear policies of critical importance. Tables, figures, footnotes