2 answers
Cooper
Student
1
Question
Asked
397 views
In a police academy, are you required to get tazed?
In a police training academy, are you required to get tazed? I just don’t like the feeling of electrical shock going through my body
Login to comment
2 answers
Michael Branham
Retired 40 plus years Officer to Chief (Director/Constable, as well).
31
Answers
Peoria, Arizona
Updated
Michael’s Answer
Hi, Cooper! Some academy trainings for ECD (electronic control devices) do indeed require the deployment of the hand held less lethal weapons on students, while some do not. The instructors use methods designed to minimize the risk of injury and I can assure you that NO ONE likes receiving the charge. Recruits/Refresher Trained Officers receive both ECD deployments as well as OC (type) Aerosol deployments, so they first understand the effects of less than lethal weapons on suspects, as well as the limitations & dangers of mis-use/over use of the devises. Secondly, they now have the ability to fully explain how/where & when their department authorizes use of such tools (and more importantly when they do NOT) in court settings or other venues where the officer(s) may need to justify WHY this tool was chosen and just what the outcome of the deployment was meant to accomplish.
This type of first hand knowledge is very important and adds value to the training.
This type of first hand knowledge is very important and adds value to the training.
Kimberly Krebs
Corporate Security Manager
78
Answers
Bethlehem, Pennsylvania
Updated
Kimberly’s Answer
Good question. The short answer is...it depends on the department you join. My department in Florida required that we be tazed in the academy and they filmed it. The reason they do this is so that 1) if you were to use that tool during your job (taze someone), you would understand what the individual is experiencing and 2) if someone tried to claim being tazed was inhumane or cruel, you have proof that you have experienced being tazed as well (the video from training). To be honest, it's a short moment (3-5 seconds) of discomfort that you will be glad you experienced once it's over. No one likes it, but it will help you gain a deeper understanding of your tools and when and why you should use them.