A stunning protest

August 7, 2007

Armed with anti-Taser signs, protestors marched through the streets of downtown Brattleboro. For many taking part, stun guns have no place in the community.

"I do understand that there are occasions that would require tasers in place of more lethal force such as guns; but that does not seem to come up in our community that often, so I seriously do question if they are appropriate for our community," said Sara Longsmith.

The demonstration comes on the heels of two separate incidents. The first happened in the beginning of July when officers used a Taser on an unruly juvenile at the Brattleboro Retreat hospital. The second was at the end of July, when these two activists were Tased by police during a non-violent protest. Both were at Tuesday's march, walking quietly towards the back of the pack. But others were quick to say that police violence in Brattleboro dates back several years.

In 2001, Brattleboro police officers shot and killed Robert Woodward after he allegedly pulled a knife in front of the congregation at the All Souls Church. However, a state investigation cleared the officers of any wrong-doing.

"This is part of a pattern of excessive force by the Brattleboro PD. They clearly have some problems with leadership and with training and we feel the need to speak out," said Leo Schiff.

Though not everybody along the route agreed.

"If these people want to run the thing this way then have them form their own town, they can do their own police force, their own hospital their own naked people, do what they want," said Richard Austin.

The state is reviewing Brattleboro Police's use of the Taser in at least one of the incidents.

"My belief is that the Taser is a very safe device," said Chief John Martin.

He would not comment on the current investigations directly, however he did say that Tasers are a good way to subdue a suspect during a potentially harmful, or even deadly situation.

"I've been shot with it, I know first hand the experience one goes through, and I would much rather see someone stunned with a Taser than beaten with a club," Martin said.

The town had suspended the use of Tasers while the investigation into the latest incident was conducted. But, Chief Martin said that as of Tuesday, the tools were being re-deployed to the officers back on the street.

Brattleboro police first got three Tasers in 2002-- shortly after the Woodward shooting. Today the department has eight Tasers.