PERRY TOWNSHIP 2013 TASER POLICY
D.

PROCEDURES FOR DEPLOYING THE TASER Neuro - Muscular
Incapacitation Device (X-26 Taser):
Consistent with the Perry Township Police Department’s policy of using an
action response continuum the Taser may be used as an intermediate
weapon. The Taser can be used to gain compliance with those individuals
who resist our lawful mission or are aggressive and threatening to officers
or innocent parties. The Taser is a weapon that is to be deployed as an
option when time permits in circumstances outlined in the procedure.
1.

Only officers trained on the use of Taser and who have completed
the instructional course are approved to use the device as an
intermediate weapon. Officers will follow manufactures guidelines
as outlined in the Taser X26 Operator’s Manuel and any sub
sequential manufactures updates or advisories.

2.

Officers will receive refresher courses on the Taser on an annual
basis or in accordance with manufacturer’s recommendations.

3.

The Taser is designed to temporarily immobilize a violent suspect
or individual who is resistant to lawful police authority.

4.

The Taser should be used within the action response use of force
continuum to control potentially violent suspects or individuals who
are resisting lawful police authority.

5.

Examples of situations in which the Taser may be used include, but
not limited to the following:
a.

Dealing with the mentally ill subject who is perceived violent.

a.

Armed offender(s).

c.

Warrant service where offender(s) are perceived violent.

d.

Violent persons who are under the influence of alcohol
and/or drugs.

e.

Persons expressing the intent and having means to commit
suicide.

f.

When the officer reasonably believes that this device if
deployed will stop resistance or any threat of violence.

g.

6.

With all of the above in mind, the Taser is not a substitute for
Lethal Force.

The recommended point of aim to the front is to target the lowercenter of mass for front shots. The blue highlighted area in the
above target man represents the preferred target area. There are
three reasons:
a. Simplify targeting for all Taser systems to one easy to remember
map, avoiding chest shots when possible and the risk of a head
/eye shot.
b. Close spread ECD discharges to the front of the body are more
effective when at least one probe is in the major muscle.
c. Back shots are the preferred area when practical.

7.

Officers should be prudent before deploying the Taser on certain
individuals including but not limited to the following:
a.

Physically challenged (wheelchairs).

b.

Pregnant women and young children.

b.

Individuals who have debilitating illness or the elderly.

c.

In areas that may have combustibles, gases or blasting
materials.

d.

Subjects that are in control of a motor vehicle.

e.

Handcuffed subjects unless they pose a danger to
themselves, public safety officers or the public.

f.

Elevated position where a fall may cause substantial injury
or death.

8.

The projectiles and the cartridge packs used will be submitted as
evidence as prescribed in evidence submission procedures.
Photographs should be taken of the affected area(s) of the suspect
where the Taser was deployed.

9.

The Taser may be kept in the trunk of the patrol car or officers may
carry the Taser in a holster that is worn on the weak side away from
the gun side.

10.

Care of the Taser:
a.

Do not store the Taser cartridge at temperatures above 150
degrees Fahrenheit Extreme temperatures can cause
defects in the cartridges. The Taser and cartridges will be
removed from the patrol cars at the end of the officer’s shift.

b.

At the beginning of the shift, officers will ensure the Taser
batteries are charged and functioning properly. The check
will be noted on the officer’s daily inspection report.

c.

Periodically check the expiration date of the Taser cartridge
and ensure the blast doors are intact. Remove expired and
defective cartridges from service.