Taser Gun Usage On Teenagers

Anyone who has ever has a teenager in the house would probably agree that there are times when they are exasperating. Sometimes it feels like a mystery, trying to figure out how to get them to listen and do what they are asked to. Even the most rebellious teenager should not be subjected to a taser gun for simple noncompliance.

Recently this has become an issue for our neighbors to the north. There is a movement in Canada to limit the use of Tasers on minors. Apparently there have been some incidents in which young teens have had Tasers used on them by law enforcement when they are not cooperating. Understandably, this has caused some concern.

The hope is that new guidelines will keep teens safer. Tasers are a very agreeable alternative when the only other choice is the use of lethal force. There are times when teens do get themselves into situations in which a Taser is absolutely the perfect choice for law enforcement.

The problems arise when Tasers are used for other issues. Tasers in and of themselves provide an excellent option for personal protection, both for law enforcement and for the average citizen. Obviously, they were never meant to be used as a form of punishment for teens or for anyone else. They are simply an instrument that should be used to keep safe and to fend off an attack.

It stands to reason that guidelines should reflect common sense. Of course this is not always the case. Each law enforcement agency is responsible for setting forth their guidelines and then each officer must make decisions depending on their situation.