Let UA police know thoughts on Taser use
The Traveler Editorial Board
Issue date: 3/4/09 Section: Opinion
Officers from the University of Arkansas Police Department are exploring the possibility of carrying Tasers on campus, and they've invited members of the UA community to express their opinions on the situation.
Some UAPD officers said that carrying Tasers could prevent more violent situations that would warrant the use of a baton or gun. Using a Taser might be a better choice than opening fire on a situation that is not life-threatening, they said.
Because of the 2007 stunning incident at the University of Florida, which caused video footage to circulate of a 21-year-old student being stunned by university police, many at the UA might be hesitant to allow police to carry Tasers on the UA campus.
Until the final decision is made, then, we encourage all to contact the UAPD and write letters to the editor to get their opinions heard.
Some UAPD officers said that carrying Tasers could prevent more violent situations that would warrant the use of a baton or gun. Using a Taser might be a better choice than opening fire on a situation that is not life-threatening, they said.
Because of the 2007 stunning incident at the University of Florida, which caused video footage to circulate of a 21-year-old student being stunned by university police, many at the UA might be hesitant to allow police to carry Tasers on the UA campus.
Until the final decision is made, then, we encourage all to contact the UAPD and write letters to the editor to get their opinions heard.
Viewing Comments 1 - 3 of 3
Thomas Rice
posted 3/04/09 @ 2:48 PM CST
I've had so many problems at this school. Took em a year to inform me they weren't going to transfer credits. Two years to find out they were sending all my financial records to my grandfathers house who was informed to throw any mail away since he shouldn't be getting it. (Continued…)
Thomas Rice
posted 3/04/09 @ 3:01 PM CST
The UA campus is pretty peaceful, only real thing I've seen happen is the cops arresting some kid for his front bike wheel coming off the ground.
Someone should do a study on the number of times the UAPD has had to use "excessive force" either through a baton or a gun, so people can determine if these are really even necessary. (Continued…)
naffel
posted 3/04/09 @ 4:20 PM CST
The only real problem I've seen with tasers is when the police become as comfortable with them as handcuffs. I personally don't like the idea, because it gives the officer more to think about in a break neck situation. (Continued…)
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