Tazer coverup in Missouri

Apparently the "Show Me" state's motto doesn't apply to the Joplin MO Police Department. It's decided to change its policy to disallow information requests regarding officer involved shootings, classifying them now as a confidential personnel matter. I wonder why they changed their mind?

The reports had not been considered confidential as recently as about seven months ago. The Police Department had in October 2004 given the Globe its records about the use of Tasers in the wake of a house explosion that could have been triggered by use of a Taser.

The Globe's review of those reports showed that one officer, Charles Ward, accounted for 28 percent of the department's Taser deployments since the force adopted the weapon. From May 1, 2003, to Sept. 30, 2004, Joplin officers fired Tasers at suspects 88 times. Ward used the weapon 25 of the 88 times, more than any other officer.

In recent weeks, the Globe learned and reported that Ward and Officer Ron Buchanan were disciplined after questioning, handcuffing, and arresting an 11-year-old boy at his elementary school in November 2004.

It's so pleasant to see another state following Florida's lead in criminalizing pre-teens.

Quite clearly the Joplin PD wanted to keep the records secret because Officer Ward is no doubt up for a distinguished service award and they didn't want to spoil the surprise.

The phone number for the Joplin Police Department is 417-623-3131, or send them an email. Please feel free to let them know just how much you appreciate their efforts.

[x-posted at Daily Kos]