Maui police drawing up
plan to use Taser guns
WAILUKU >> Maui County police officials plan to use Taser stun guns as a pilot project, becoming the second county in the state to test the "nonlethal weapon."
The Honolulu Police Department recently completed its pilot program and is evaluating the results.
Honolulu Police Maj. Mike Tamashiro said yesterday that the department will review 22 incidents in which a Taser was used since May, and he hopes to make a recommendation to the chief within a month or two.
Tamashiro said no one died or was seriously injured in the 22 incidents.
"So far, we've been satisfied with the performance of the Taser and the situations that they were utilized," Tamashiro said.
Big Island and Kauai police said they are interested in using Taser guns but need to do some research.
Elroy Osorio, the Big Island's assistant chief for administration, said his department has been talking with Honolulu police about its pilot project, and wants to take a look at the results of its study.
Maui Police Chief Thomas Phillips said yesterday he hopes the Taser guns will result in fewer injuries sustained by officers who sometimes have to struggle with suspects during arrests.
In Maui County, assaults upon police officers have been rising.
Phillips said there were 135 assaults upon Maui police officers last year, compared with 35 assaults five years ago.
Maui police have drawn some criticism for using deadly force in the fatal shooting of two people in separate incidents this year.
Police shot 27-year-old Lisa Kaina to death in Paia on Jan. 23 after she allegedly refused to stop driving a stolen rental car and had reversed toward a patrolman on foot.
Charles B. Ogden, 48, accused of exposing himself to children, was shot at a Kihei beach on Feb. 29 after he sprayed bear repellent on a police officer and a citizen.
Phillips said the use of a Taser would not have applied in the fatal shootings of Kaina or Ogden.
Phillips said police have purchased 24 Taser guns through its savings within the department, each one with holster and other equipment costing about $1,300, and planned to use them during the next year.
The Taser weapons deliver an electrical charge that immobilizes a person by forcing the muscles to contract. It can be fired up to 21 feet and discharges steel probes into a person.
Phillips said a study is being done to select the district or districts on Maui where the Taser guns will be tested. The department also is developing policies for officers who use the Taser guns.
County of Maui
www.co.maui.hi.us
