Two members of the Southborough Police Department suffered minor injuries during an incident with a disturbed male at the Southborough Motor Lodge.
The officers were checking on a Framingham man at the request of a concerned family member. According to the department release, agitated male “became combative” forcing the officers to use a taser in efforts to subdue him.
None of the parties were seriously injured.
It’s less than three years since the Southborough police force was authorized to acquire and train on use of taser guns. I wondered if it was the first time officers had employed them. Chief Kenneth Paulhus responded with a yes and no.
Chief Paulhus explained that tasers were used twice before “in ‘Drive Stun Mode’ as a compliance technique.” But this was “the first ‘Full Deployment’ of probes as an electro muscular disrupter.”
Here is the full story from the SPD press release:
On, 7/28/2017, at 7:15 p.m., The Southborough Police Department responded to the Southborough Motor Lodge at 50 Turnpike Road for a Well Being call. A family member reported that a 29 year old male from Framingham was having a psychological issue, and possibly off of his medication.
Upon arrival, Sergeant James DeLuca and Officer William Woodford made contact with the male who was agitated and sweating profusely. The male quickly became combative, and attacked both Officers who were attempting to gain control without success. A long struggle ensued which included two ECW Taser deployments on the male, and a burst of pepper spray, while attempting to handcuff the subject.
The male was then transported by SFD Rescue to Framingham Hospital for a psychological evaluation, and treatment related to the use of force. Both Officers were also treated and released for injuries suffered during the confrontation. Ashland Police assisted on scene, and during the transport to Framingham.
In September 2014, when the Chief asked selectmen to allow tasers, he called them an additional tool for the safety of officers. He told selectmen that tasers were shown to reduce officer injuries by 70% and suspect injuries by 40%.
Updated (8/1/17 4:17 pm): I followed up and added more information on the police department’s use of tasers.
Sounds like the police did an outstanding job. Thank you offices Deluca and Woodroff. And thank you Chief Paulhuas for the great description of the stun gun . “Blue lives matter”! Thank you for your fast response times and protection of our community.