TASER Rules Updated in Delaware

General orders when it came to TASER devices used by police departments in Delaware were recently modified in a bid to address the use of them, in addition to addressing language concerns.

During a council meeting there were two specific areas that were addressed: the use of the self defense device and medical treatment for an individual who had experienced the shock from the tool.

One of the general orders regarded medical treatment and whether or not it would be provided if either the individual asked for it or the police deemed it necessary. The modified change now leaves it up to police discretion.

The rules are still similar to what they originally were before; however the need for medical treatment would be made on the judgment of the police officer alone. It is thought that if a TASER weapon is employed in an area that is not deemed vital that it is believed that medical treatment wouldn’t be necessary.

Furthermore, a recommendation was made to prevent TASER devices from being utilized on a suspect who was already in custody, unless there was a certain threat of violence.

A second change related to the clarification of the type of language used when the shocking device was about to be employed. The modified order changed the wording with the term noncompliant and potentially violent with individuals who pose a direct threat to others as well as themselves, as to when the stunning weapon should be employed.

The simple reason why this change came about was because if a suspect is in custody in handcuffs, but they are being disruptive, then they shouldn’t be the target of a TASER weapon. Officers will be able to employ different means in order to control them in a way that doesn’t require its use.

Of course, these changes have been put in place to make sure that all the correct procedures are being followed in a lawful manner by the police of Delaware. This way they can prevent any incidents from taking place that could potentially see them in a negative light, thus causing trouble from citizens.