Today, for the first time in the Brick Police Department’s history, officers are being deployed with Conducted Energy Devices (CEDs), otherwise known as tasers.
Thirty seven officers are now qualified to utilize these new tools and underwent hours of specialized training. That training included rules of engagement for use of force, Attorney General guidelines on deployment protocols and familiarization on how to safely and effectively deploy the device.
Lakewood police officers began carrying tasers in 2017.
The utilization of CEDs gives the police an option when they are faced with a situation that results in a need to apply force. Officers always prefer to accomplish their mission without having to resort to force, but in those situations where force may be necessary, a CED presents an alternative not previously available to them.
“Encounters with violent suspects are inevitable, but my hope is that now our officers will be able to safely and more quickly resolve an incident before it has a chance to escalate into a situation that results in an injury to the suspect or our officers,” said Chief James Riccio.
They carry guns before they carry tasers?? ????
I know a man that was tasered and beaten with night sticks by multiple cops. He said he was glad he was Tasered. He said it was better than lethal force.