Time for county to stop taser use - by Michael Spreadbury

Article on Taser Use Written by Michael Spreadbury
http://ravallirepublic.com/articles/2009/08/18/viewpoint/37viewpoint.txt
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"The Ravalli County Sheriff Department (RCSO) is currently carrying Taser weapons. The county is also a defendant in Federal Court for 12 alleged counts relating to a civil rights claim. Just recently, a county resident is bringing a case for flooding in the right of way of a Bitterroot River bridge. When liabilities like these mount, the insurance premium we pay as assessed by the Montana Association of Counties increases.

This means higher tax assessments.When asked when and how the buck stops with the commission, Greg Chilcott explained what was not their responsibility. Can we get a straight answer out of our public servants?

These are the same people who sent a scathing letter to the State DNRC regarding the 38 “alleged” violations of floodplain rules in Ravalli County.It is their responsibility to enforce these provisions, so we may be protected from flood events, and have the ability to obtain loans for many properties that dip below the 100 year floodplain elevation. Do we need our own commissioners blocking potential real estate transactions due to an inability to take responsibility for their well paid responsibilities?

While campaigning for mayor, a family told me of an event where a family rushed a young girl to the hospital by private vehicle due to multiple injuries at the scene.While it is unfortunate the girl suffered permanent injuries, the driver of the vehicle was reportedly tasered by a Ravalli County deputy at the hospital. In an emergent situation, it is evident that the law enforcement did not assess the situation appropriately.

Why are these officers carrying other lethal weapons in a locale were lethal situations are not around every corner? A Taser carries up to 50,000 volts, and has been fatal in many situations."

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Full Article by Michael Spreadbury Click Below
http://ravallirepublic.com/articles/2009/08/18/viewpoint/37viewpoint.txt
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