TASER PROCEDURES AND FUNCTIONALITY
This newsletter will provide guidance and serve as a reminder on how to properly check function, spark, battery, and expiration dates on cartridges for proper use of the electronic immobilization device TASER.
The TASER is a less lethal hand held electronic immobilization device used for controlling assaultive/high risk persons. The purpose of this device is to facilitate a safe and effective response in order to minimize injury to suspects and deputies.
At the beginning of each shift, a spark functionality test of the TASER should be conducted. Personnel assigned to carry a TASER should check the TASER as follows:
Note: The TASER should be cycled for the full five seconds ONCE per day. During the other two spark tests, the TASER should be cycled on and off for one to two seconds to preserve the battery.
If any of these areas fail to meet these requirements, the TASER should not be used. The TASER should be returned to the unit armor for service.
Use of Force
The use of the TASER, either by utilizing the probes or the touch/drive stun mode, shall be reported as a use of force as defined in the Department’s Manual of Policy and Procedures, section 3-10/100.00, Use of Force Reporting and Review Procedures.
Whenever a use of a TASER requires force reporting, a download of the TASER stored data and video (if the TASER is video enabled) shall be conducted and submitted with the force package.
Facility Responsibility
Although it is the responsibility of the individual to ensure the TASER is in good working order before shift, each facility shall develop an item-specific checklist. Each checklist should list what is to be inspected, how each particular item is to be inspected, and whether the item is in good working order.
Each unit commander shall develop and implement procedures that ensure the following equipment is inspected daily by line personnel, and weekly by a lieutenant:
The discovery of any inadequacy shall result in the immediate remedy either by repair or replacement.
(Front of cartridge: blast doors) (Back of cartridge: expiration date
upper right corner)
REFERENCES
MPP 5-06/040.95 – Electronic Immobilization Device (TASER) Procedures
CDC 3-06/050.00 – Equipment Inspection
If you have any questions, please email Field Operations Support Services at [REDACTED TEXT]