The Globe and Mail recently discussed a revision to the RCMP's contraversial taser policy. That is, the new policy "allows officers to fire multiple shocks to control people under certain circumstances." The RCMP state that individuals who display 'excited delirium' can be subject to taser treatment. This described as a potentially fatal “state of extreme mental and physiological excitement that is characterized by extreme agitation, hyperthermia, hostility, exceptional strength and endurance without apparent fatigue.” To recognize people of this nature, RCMP officers are now required to take two day twenty hour course.
My Critique
My past postings on the topic of taser-use should give some indication on the direction of my argument. I thought it would be fair to keep readers updated on the issue. Furthermore, the facts prove that numerous people have died as a result of tasers. How far will this policy go? In other words, considering the most recent death of Robert Dziekanski at a Vancouver airport, how many more people must die to support a serious re-evalaution of this policy?
Advocacy of the Devil
Unfortunately, in the media, we only hear about the worst of the worst taser situations. Is it possible that critics of this policy simply overlook the unstable and dangerous situations that police sometimes experience? It is important to understand the notion that tasers are meant for control not punishment. In effect, police need to be empowered to make the best, and somtimes necessary decisions.
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