Special Notice / Hearing: None__
Vote Required: Majority
To: Honorable Board of Supervisors
From: Dave Pine, President of the Board of Supervisors
Subject: Formation of an Ad-Hoc Taser Committee
RECOMMENDATION:
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Adopt a resolution forming an Ad-Hoc Taser Committee and appointing Supervisor Dave Pine and Supervisor Carole Groom as its members.
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BACKGROUND:
On October 3, 2018, Chinedu Okobi died following an interaction with San Mateo County Sheriff’s Office personnel where an Electronic Control Device (commonly referred to by the brand name “Taser”) was deployed. The matter is currently under investigation by the District Attorney’s Office and all the facts of what occurred remain to be determined.
During 2018 Tasers were also used by other law enforcement agencies in two other incidents in San Mateo County where a person died.
DISCUSSION:
In light of the fact that three people have died in San Mateo County during 2018 where law enforcement deployed Tasers, it is recommended that the Board of Supervisors have a public discussion about Tasers and their use by law enforcement. It is recommended that the Board appoint a temporary ad-hoc committee made up of Supervisor Dave Pine and Supervisor Carole Groom to work with the Sheriff and County staff to schedule and organize this future Board discussion.
County Counsel has reviewed and approved the resolution as to form.
FISCAL IMPACT:
While significant time may be spent on this item, the resolution itself will result in no unbudgeted Net County costs.