Anchorage, Alaska PD distances itself from bear tasering stupidity

Anchorage Police Department

...Local news outlets recently reported on the use of a civilian TASER by off-duty Anchorage Police Lieutenant Dave Parker for the purpose of discouraging a food-conditioned bear. Had this event been a life-threatening or property-threatening encounter, any kind of force would have been authorized [even a flamethrower]. But the circumstances were not so, and thus the use of the TASER in this case entailed unnecessary risk. Media attention, coupled with Parker's well-known connection to the police department, may have given the public the misperception that TASER use of this kind is acceptable or even recommended. The APD regrets the role one of its employees may have had in sending an incorrect message on this topic, and welcomes this opportunity to join the ADF&G in setting the matter straight. ...

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