Stop or they'll ... stun.Ridgeland police officers will soon join the growing number of law enforcement agencies across the country carrying Taser stun guns. The Jasper County police force recently ordered 17 of the weapons - a move loaded with possibilities for the town, its officers and citizens.Described as "non-lethal," stun guns fire barbs connected by insulated wires to high-voltage batteries. With a well-aimed shot, an officer can attach the barbs to a suspect's body or clothing and immobilize the person for several seconds - just enough time to get help or bring a suspect under control. The jolt, which is similar to grabbing a spark plug wire, constricts muscles.The benefit of Tasers for law enforcement is: They allow officers to do their work without risking serious injury. And the weapons prevent suspects from getting hurt. The Beaufort County Sheriff's special operations officers and Beaufort Police already use stun guns, and Port Royal's police are asking for them.
Another advantage, according to Ridgeland Police Chief Richard Woods, is that suspects who believe an officer will not shoot them with an actual gun would be more willing to comply with orders when facing a Taser.It seems unlikely a suspected criminal would risk life or permanent injury but not momentary incapacity to avoid incarceration. But those with prior criminal records might be more cooperative. Perhaps they've been hit by stun guns before.Because South Carolina does not require a permit for the weapons, practically any adult can carry them. In fact, they've been compared to Mace and pepper spray, but they're much more high-tech and expensive. A Taser X-26 model costs $800.The good news for the town is that its liability insurance could decrease. And it doesn't have to pay for the Tasers.The weapons and the training for officers to use them will be paid for with state and federal grants and money from local drug busts. And ultimately the community benefits. The fewer real guns there are on the streets, the safer the streets are for everyone.