Posted inCity, Community, Crime, Crime & Safety

Berkeley police chief says Tasers would help his officers

Berkeley Police Chief Meehan Berkeley Police Chief Michael Meehan told the Berkeley City Council on Tuesday night he believes his officers should be granted the option to carry Tasers, which are not currently allowed under city policy. It was the first time Meehan has taken a stand on the issue in a high-profile public forum, though he said he had made similar comments […]

Posted inCrime, Crime & Safety

City of Berkeley solicits Taser study; anti-Taser group to hold forum Thursday night

Advocates for and against Tasers attended a meeting in May to speak to the Berkeley City Council about whether Berkeley police should be allowed to carry the weapon. Photo: Emilie Raguso Advocates for and against Tasers attended a meeting in May to speak to the Berkeley City Council about whether Berkeley police should be allowed to carry […]

Posted inCrime, Crime & Safety

Taser used in arrest of driver in stolen car in Berkeley

Image: CHP Oakland A man authorities say led officers on a chase from the Bay Bridge into Berkeley was arrested after the deployment of a Taser this week. Oakland-area California Highway Patrol spokesman Sean Wilkenfeld said via email that the chase, which hit speeds of 100 mph, began early Wednesday at approximately 12:30 a.m. Officers spotted […]

Posted inCrime, Crime & Safety

Taser report: Tool could save Berkeley millions, decrease use of force, but oversight and training would be key

With the Berkeley City Council about to request a report on Tasers, a 2011 study on the subject has surfaced. Photo: Creative Commons With the Berkeley City Council about to request a report on Tasers, a 2011 study on the subject has surfaced. Photo: Creative Commons Berkeley officials plan to consider in early May whether to take their first deep […]

Posted inCity, Crime, Crime & Safety

Councilmen: Time is now to discuss Tasers in Berkeley

Councilman Laurie Capitelli is among three Berkeley council members who are calling for a discussion on Taser use by Berkeley Police officers. Photo: Emilie Raguso Three Berkeley City Council members are bringing the issue of Taser use by local police to the forefront with a proposed council agenda item currently set for consideration in early […]