03-08-04 Health & Public Safety - Laserfiche WebLink

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rilimimmmi r ,calth and Public Safety Committee Report March 8,2004 - Page 2 The Committee then witnessed a live Taser energy weapon demonstration using a TASER X26Personal Defense System on City Clerk John Voorde. Mr. Voorde had a person on each side of him when he became incapacitated when the TASER X26 was shot at him. He received a 3-second energy h w thelvolta immobilized ent through Mr. Voordeas body causing him to foil-covered panel showed g become incapacitated. The Committee then focused their attention on Substitute Bill No. 12-04 which would amend Chapter 14 of the South Bend Municipal Code by the inclusion of new Article 5 entitled "Stun Gun Regulations". Lt. Keith Schweitzer of the South Bend Police Department and FOP#36 President Scott A. Ruszkowski noted that there is no way of fighting through being shot by a TASER which could result in an police officer"witnessing his own death"because the shooter could take the police officers service revolver while he/she is incapacitated. The civilian versions of the TASER will shoot at a distance of 15' and the police officer version at 21'. They noted that each police officer receives at least four(4)hours of training on the use of a TASER. In response to a question from Council Member Kelly,they noted that the physical effects typically are stiffness and sore muscles. A video of various police departments using tasers was then shown to the Committee. Mayor Luecke expressed appreciation to the Council for taking action in this area. He noted that he has talked with state legislators hoping that a state-wide ban could be passed this year,however it was too late in the legislative session. The Association of Cities and Towns and other Mayors are interested in having other communities pass similar legislation. Mayor Luecke stated that the Administration is in support of Substitute Bill No. 12-04. The City Attorney and Council Attorney noted that they believe that the proposed ordinance has been strenghened by the inclusion in the definition section of the reference to the definition of the 1985 state law addressing stun guns. The substitute bill also includes increased fines of$250.00, $500.00, and$1,000.00. They noted that they believe that the ordinance is constitutional sound and enforceable. Council Member Pfeifer inquired whether stun guns for civilians were being sold currently in South Bend. The Council Attorney stated that they are unaware of any sales currently however such stun guns are available over the intemet. It was suggested that the Office of the City Clerk send a copy of the ordinance to all gun dealers doing business in the city. Following discussion,Council Member Kelly made a motion, seconded by Council Member Dieter that Substitute Bill No. 12-04 be recommended favorably to Council. The motion passed.