Phoenix Greenlights $22 Million for Cutting-Edge Police Tasers

In a controversial move, the Phoenix City Council approved a $22 million contract to purchase and upgrade tasers, just two months after the police faced scrutiny for their treatment of Tyron McAplin, a deaf Black man with cerebral palsy. The contract, which will see payments of nearly $2 million in 2025 and around $5 million annually for the next four years, aims to enhance the police department’s equipment and provide new de-escalation training. However, details on how much of the allocation will specifically cover tasers remain unclear.

During a recent council meeting, residents expressed outrage over the decision, pointing to the timing as inappropriate and tone-deaf. “This proposal is a slap in the face for every Phoenix resident,” local organizer Percy Christian stated, referencing the U.S. Department of Justice’s findings on the Phoenix Police Department’s pattern of excessive force. These findings, released following a nearly three-year investigation, noted unreasonable taser use, especially against individuals in mental health crises.

Despite criticisms, the police maintain that the updated Taser 10 model will enhance safety for both officers and citizens alike. Interim Chief Michael Sullivan explained that the new model would double the range from 25 to 45 feet and operate at a lower voltage, theoretically allowing officers more time to de-escalate potentially volatile situations.

Since the introduction of tasers in 2003, the Phoenix Police Department has seen fluctuating statistics regarding officer shootings. Supporters of the Axon contract underscore the reduction in officer shootings following the implementation of earlier taser models. However, many residents remain skeptical of these claims, arguing that weapons like tasers contribute to violence rather than mitigate it.

Only one person spoke in favor of the new contract during the meeting. “Our officers need technological resources in order to properly provide our community with public safety,” noted Anne Ender. Nonetheless, concerns were raised about the city’s budget as Phoenix is projected to face a $120 million deficit in the coming years. City Manager Jeff Barton stated that funding for the taser upgrade and training needs will need to be sourced from existing budgets.

In addition to the taser contract, the council approved a $304,641 settlement for residents and business owners in a downtown area recently cleared of tents associated with the city’s homelessness crisis. Furthermore, the council voted to lower the minimum age to operate electric scooters and bicycles on public roads from 18 to 16, although Council Member Ann O’Brien pushed for an even lower age of 14.

The vote to reduce the age limit passed 8-1, although concerns about roadway safety for younger riders were prominently voiced. Spin and Lime, the city’s electric scooter rental partners, stated they would maintain a minimum age of 18 for liability reasons, adding a layer of complexity to the new regulations.