Mississippi mayor orders police force to stop using Tasers

[unhappycamper]

Mississippi mayor orders police force to stop using Tasers
By Donna Harris | Biloxi Sun Herald
Posted on Sunday, December 19, 2010

WAVELAND, Miss. — The mayor of this small Mississippi Gulf coast city has taken Tasers out of the hands of the city's police officers.

Mayor David Garcia issued the order to Chief James Varnell after several lawsuits alleging Taser abuse by officers were filed in U.S. District Court.

Garcia confirmed three lawsuits were filed against the police department last week.

He said he told Varnell on Thursday night, “Let’s pick up the Tasers.”

Varnell is cooperating fully, Garcia said. “Jimmy’s working with the problems,” he said.

[LuvNewcastle]

1. This should be happening

all across America. Too many police depts. are giving out tasers to officers in lieu of giving them the training they need. Using a taser on someone who is already in handcuffs or using it on a person who is just running his mouth is not acceptable.

[Little Star]

2. Good! More should do the same. n/t

[Th1onein]

3. Keep up the lawsuits

Hit them in their pocketbooks. It's the only thing they understand. Even if you don't win, they have to defend themselves and that costs attorney's fees.

Every time you stand up for yourself, you're standing up for everyone behind you, too.