Cincy police revise policy on stun guns

CINCINNATI (AP) — Cincinnati police have revised their policy on stun guns in an effort to reduce the potential risk of serious injury or death.

Police said today the new guidelines recommend that officers aim at a suspect’s back when deploying the barbs from a stun gun.

The policy also prohibits frontal shots, except in self-defense or to defend someone else. The guidelines say stun guns should never be aimed at the head, neck, eyes, throat, chest or genitals.

Officers are also encouraged to consider any secondary injuries that could result from stun guns, such as those that could occur if a person falls after being hit by the barbs.

Cincinnati police say injuries to officers and suspects have declined significantly with the use of stun guns.