Minneapolis police union head opposes limit on use of Tasers at RNC

In a Star Tribune story posted on its website late on Thursday night, David Chanen reports that among some police officers, “a protest has erupted over dealing with protesters” at the St. Paul Republic National Convention (RNC) this summer. In the Strib piece, Sgt. John Delmonico, president of the Minneapolis Police Officers Federation, argues against a plan to restrict the use of Taser guns, chemical irritant spray, helmets and shields at the RNC.

Delmonico wrote in a letter Friday to Minneapolis and St. Paul city and police officials that officers should be enabled to “keep the peace,” lest they become mere “hospitality attendants.” Just having the equipment can stave off potential uprisings, he says, adding that training should be provided if there are concerns about cops using the equipment abusively. By Delmonico’s reasoning, not having the equipment could put police in a position where they’re forced to resort to more aggressive tactics if a situation turns violent.