Amnesty warns of 'lethal' Tasers

[dipsydoodle]

Source: BBC News

Industry claims that Taser stun guns are safe do not stand up to scrutiny and tougher controls over their use are needed, says Amnesty International.

Taser guns - used by police forces around the world - deliver a 50,000 volt shock to disable suspects.

A report by the human rights group said Taser shocks caused or contributed to dozens of deaths in the US.

Amnesty urged governments to limit their deployment to life-threatening situations or suspend their use.

Read more: http://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/world/americas/7785402.stm

[byeya]

1. Taser problems

From my perspective, there are at least two problems with Tasers:
<1> They are a lethal piece of defensive equipment when they are marketed
as non-lethal; and,
<2> They are so easily misused that they are inappropriate to be issued as
a everyday piece of gear for every officer to have.
The idea behind the Taser is good: Keeps a distance between a suspect and the
officer while allowing the officer to subdue the suspect and affect an arrest.
This is very important for smaller and older officers.
However, the accumulated evidence leads me to believe the Taser should be
withdrawn from daily usage.

[jetphixer]

2. Can i try 1

I would love to try one out on chenney an see how it effects his pace maker But that be 2 merciful for that guy.. I wonder if you can use one with water boarding?? couold be bush n rummey would try it an let us know....

[lelgt60]

3. Yes - I much prefer being shot

"Dozens of deaths"? What about guns in the hands of police. Just because something isn't perfect doesn't mean it's not better.

With regard to potential for abuse, I agree that's it's a stickier problem. The less lethal, the more likely it will be abused. But, again, I'll take my chances with the taser.