I know how much you all just love taser stories…
The latest? The Times Argus is reporting (link behind paywall) that Montpelier police chief Tony Facos has requested money in the new police budget proposal for 14 tasers:
Facos included money for Tasers in the police department budget request that has been submitted to Montpelier City Manager Bill Fraser. Despite the request, it’s far from clear whether Facos will get his wish. Fraser will have to decide whether to include the chief’s request in the budget recommendation he is expected to make in early December to the city council. At that point, the council and the public would have a chance to weigh in.
The MPD requested tasers three years ago, and after public input, the request was denied. It’s not a done deal now at this point, as in addition to the council’s decision, there is still the matter of public input.
The police have a council ally in tough-guy councilman Alan H. Weiss:
When asked about some people’s opinions that Tasers have led to fatalities or are too easily abused, Weiss was dismissive.
“I just don’t give a damn about these attitudes,” he said. “What I’ve read and what I’ve heard about their use, they’re quite efficient and you don’t have to shoot anybody with a bullet or rap them over the head. One shot with the Taser and it quiets them right down.”
Only thing missing from Weiss’ comments was a “they probably had it coming” remark, but nevertheless, he’s sure to get an earful, for better or worse, when the public input starts rolling in.
Somebody ought to go out door-to-door chatting with his constituents and recounting some of the actual incidents of taser misuse just in Vermont.
You little people need to stop worrying and learn to love tasers, TSA gropes, etc.
We can’t pay migrant workers, fuel assistance is cut back, schools are going down the shitroad to Corporatization, but, yes, we can buy gadgets for the police, who will need to use them against all those rowdy elderly folks whose benefits are being stolen. Weapons to protect the thieves. I’m having a “Magnificent Seven” moment.
Well, I just hope the MPD gets the latest models–the ones with the cameras and cell phones and toenail clippers attached.
Yeah, “quiets them right down.” He says it all there.
If Alan Weiss will let me taze him every time he says something stupid during a council meeting. That would be fun.
I would like someone to ask the Chief how many times Montpelier police officers have had to use their guns to subdue any suspects in, say, the last three years? Thought so….