Sorry, this isn't about Cheney, Yoo, or Dubya, but it's a step forward in controlling the use of torture devices in our country.
How did we get from the friendly cop on his beat poking the drunk in the ribs to send him on his way home, to special forces-like teams? Police departments today have access to a variety of tools and weapons; chemical sprays, tear gas, flash-bangs, and "rubber" bullets.
Now, the Taser.
Electroshock weapons were said to be an alternative to deadly force. Their use has become so common that it seems the most likely application is to force compliance. Horror stories abound, you know them.
A decision in a federal appeals court requires a higher standard for when these weapons may be used. The Judge ruled that the use of these weapons "inflict a painful and frightening blow" and is a substantial use of force.
The decision by the Ninth U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals sets judicial standards for police and for people who claim they were victims of excessive force after police hit them with a Taser dart.
"The objective facts must indicate that the suspect poses an immediate threat to the officer or a member of the public," Judge Kim Wardlaw said in the 3-0 ruling.
Read more: http://www.sfgate.com/...
From the Modesto Bee:
Three men died in the Stanislaus County men's jail this year after they were shot with Tasers, though coroner's reports have suggested other factors caused their deaths. Earlier this month, there was the death of Paul Martinez Jr., an inmate shot with a stun gun while officers said he was resisting them at the Roseville City Jail.
Read more: http://www.modbee.com/...
Will this end the use of Tasers? No, but it may end some of the abuse.