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Security committee recommends training, proposes taser authorization for less‑lethal response
Summary
Rancho Murieta staff recommended keeping batons, handcuffs and OC spray and proposed adding conducted energy devices (tasers) with strict BSIS training, medical review and supervisory oversight; committee asked staff to return to the board with costs and training plans.
District security staff told the committee they operate under an "observe, report, interview" model and are not police officers, but that certain defensive tools are necessary to protect staff and the public.
Brandon, the department lead, outlined existing authorized equipment — batons, handcuffs and OC spray — and said the district follows California Bureau of Security and Investigative Services (BSIS) training and recertification standards. He recommended adding conducted energy devices (tasers) as a less‑lethal option, arguing they can reduce the need for hands‑on force and lower the risk of serious injury when used under strict policies.
"Security patrol officers are not police officers and do not replace law enforcement," Brandon said while describing the department’s role in incident prevention and reporting. He and other members emphasized that any authorization for tasers would require BSIS‑compliant certification, annual recertification, mandatory incident reporting and a medical response protocol.
Committee members stressed the importance of de‑escalation training and practical role‑play in addition to video coursework. Chair asked that Brandon and an additional staff member pursue train‑the‑trainer courses so they can bring recurring in‑house training to the agency. Brandon offered a de‑escalation anecdote, noting the value of rapport and calm verbal approaches: "I'm Brandon Reno, the major," he said in recounting an encounter where introducing himself helped calm a man experiencing a mental‑health crisis.
Members generally supported moving the equipment authorization and taser proposal to the board for consideration in February, asking staff to return with price estimates for equipment and training and to confirm BSIS and medical protocols.
The committee also discussed procurement and whether equipment should be district‑owned (preferred) or officer‑purchased, with the committee favoring district purchase and control of devices to ensure consistent policy, training and the ability to withdraw equipment if necessary.
