Tasers Are Used by the Police to Help Enforce the Law

Tasers, also known as stun guns, are a nonviolent way to subdue suspects. They are becoming an important alternative to deadly force. Across the nation, Tasers have become the preferred weapon for most police officers. Currently about 8,500 law enforcement agencies in the United States use Tasers.

The use of Tasers provide a safer way to combat suspects when they try to flee or become violent. This weapon of choice has been able to save many police officers, as well as suspects, from injury or death.

Despite the advantages of Tasers, some argue that the use of them is causing harm. For instance, certain people can not withstand the effects of being stunned. The mentally ill can become overwhelmed if shot with a stun gun. This can ultimately cause death. Concerns such as these have lead to a few major cities restricting the use of Tasers.

Amnesty International USA reported that 103 people in the United States and Canada have died between June 2001 and March 2005 after being subdued by a Taser. All police officers need to have correct training and a good understanding for when these weapons need to be used. Being a newer technology on the rise, law enforcement agencies need to stay educated on the use of this sometimes deadly weapon.

For more information on this subject, please read "Police Abuse & Tasers".