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Commission approves five‑year Axon taser subscription to replace decade‑old devices
Summary
The commission approved a five‑year subscription for Axon tasers to replace devices older than 10 years; the police chief said the subscription covers maintenance, data uploads and periodic upgrades and emphasized use‑of‑force guidelines govern deployment.
The Canyon City Commission voted July 28 to authorize a five‑year subscription for Axon-produced conductive energy devices, replacing tasers that staff said are more than 10 years old.
Police Chief (unnamed) told commissioners the subscription model covers software upgrades, data uploads, battery and component replacement and routine maintenance, saying, “any data uploads that need to be done or downloads, batteries, replacement of tongs, any maintenance is covered under that.” He added that officers must follow a use‑of‑force continuum and prioritize verbal de‑escalation: “Usually verbal deescalation is first as much as possible,” the chief said, noting a firearm is the last resort.
Commission discussion included public questions about alternative tools and liability. One commenter asked whether the department carried other physical tools such as a baton; the chief and commissioners noted past legal exposure from certain impact‑weapon uses and reiterated that equipment choices must align with state statutes and departmental policy.
A motion to approve the subscription — described by staff as a way to avoid continuing liability and ensure devices remain supported — passed on a commission vote. The measure’s five‑year term was presented as the expected life cycle before a future replacement or subscription renewal would be required.
Next steps: staff will finalize contract terms and proceed with procurement under the approved authorization.
