NCJ Number
126056
Date Published
1986
Length
53 pages
Annotation
The Legislative Research Commission of the North Carolina General Assembly examined the issue of stun guns -- their nature and availability, positive and negative implications, and various legislative responses.
Abstract
Four types of stun guns were discussed: the taser, the NOVA XR 5000, the Zapper, and the Equalizer. The committee reviewed videotapes demonstrating the use of stun guns, scientific and technical evidence as to their capabilities and potential hazards, and a variety of published reports. Testimony was presented at a public hearing by private citizens and law enforcement officials concerning appropriate regulation of stun guns. The laws of other states regulating the possession and use of stun guns were also reviewed. The committee found stun guns to be potentially dangerous weapons which fail to provide any meaningful security to individuals, while posing a serious threat to the safety of law enforcement officers and the public. The committee also found that there was insufficient proof upon which to base the judgment that stun guns could be used safely. It was recommended that the General Assembly consider legislation that would prohibit the possession, sale or use of electric weapons or devices; law enforcement officers, however, would be authorized to incorporate these weapons into their arsenals. 20 appendixes.