Lincoln County Sheriff's Office considers $108K purchase of new tasers

The Lincoln County Commissioners convened on May 5, 2025, to discuss a significant proposal regarding the purchase of new tasers for the Lincoln County Sheriff's Office. This decision comes as the current inventory of tasers, some dating back to 2008, has exceeded its useful life and is no longer serviceable.

Captain Dan Newton and Lieutenant Penny Ball presented the case for acquiring the TASER 7 model, emphasizing its importance in law enforcement operations. The current tasers, which have been in use for over a decade, are not only outdated but also pose safety concerns due to their malfunctioning status. The Sheriff's Office currently has 24 tasers on the road and 24 in the jail, but many are not operational.

The proposed purchase, estimated at $108,000, includes trade-in values of approximately $500 per device for the old tasers, which would help offset costs. The new tasers are expected to enhance officer safety and effectiveness, particularly in situations where de-escalation is necessary. The officers highlighted a recent incident where a taser was successfully deployed, preventing a potentially dangerous confrontation.

The commissioners discussed the financial implications of the purchase, noting that it falls within the existing budget and does not require additional funding. However, due to the total cost exceeding $50,000, the board's approval is necessary to proceed without a competitive bidding process.

In addition to the taser purchase, the meeting touched on the inclusion of training, cartridges, and holsters in the overall quote, ensuring that the Sheriff's Office is fully equipped for the transition to the new devices.

As the meeting concluded, the commissioners recognized the importance of equipping law enforcement with the necessary tools to ensure public safety and support the officers in their duties. The decision to move forward with the taser purchase reflects a commitment to maintaining effective law enforcement practices in Lincoln County.