Use of tasers on field jumpers won't be first option

May 6, 2010
RANDY MILLER, Bucks County Courier Times

PHILADELPHIA - After further review, it appears the use of a Taser will be a last resort the next time a fan runs onto the Citizens Bank Park playing field during a Phillies game.

On Monday, a 17-year-old from Montgomery County had his in-game outfield sprint end with a Taser gun shock, then another fan ran onto the field late into Tuesday's game, this one giving up before a Taser was used.

The incidents led to meetings between Phillies security and the Philadelphia Police, and the team issued a statement on Wednesday:

"It has been agreed that in ordinary circumstances involving field intrusion, the Phillies game day security personnel will make the apprehension of the field jumper and turn him over to the Philadelphia Police on the field for handcuffing and subsequent charging. If greater force is necessary, requiring the assistance of Philadelphia Police in making the apprehension, such assistance will be employed.

"The Phillies will continue their policy of prosecuting all persons coming onto the field during a game to the maximum extent of the law, which could include imprisonment up to one year and a $2,500 fine."