Published in the November 25, 2015 edition

By BOB TUROSZ

NORTH READING — The North Reading Police are now carrying the electronic control weapon known as Tasers, Town Administrator Michael Gilleberto has announced.

The police deployed the Tasers effective Nov. 6, Gilleberto reported. The Mass. Executive Office of Public Safety has approved the department’s regulations for the use of the non–lethal devices. The department’s officers have completed the necessary training and the Tasers were deployed in conjunction with the department’s policy.

Chief Michael Murphy proposed the use of Tasers to the Selectmen and Finance Committee back in February as part of the budget approval process. At that time, the police were requesting 15 Tasers at a cost of $21,296. Murphy explained the devices have proved to be a resounding success in reducing injuries to officers and the public.

A Taser works by firing two small dart–like electrodes which stay connected to the main unit by conductors, to deliver electrical current that disrupts the suspect’s voluntary control of muscles, causing “neuromuscular incapacitation.” Someone struck by a Taser experiences stimulation of his or her sensory nerves and motor nerves, resulting in strong involuntary muscle contractions. The current used is not as strong as people think, according to Waltham police officer Charles DiChiara, “but it’s very effective because it locks up the central nervous system.”

Selectmen’s notes

Judi Segur, assistant director of the Flint Memorial Library, has announced her intention to retire in January.  Library Director Sharon Kelleher and Human Resources Administrator Alyson Olsen have advertised the position and interviews are underway.

The Selectmen held a workshop meeting for local abutters of the proposed Kinder Morgan natural gas pipeline on Thursday, Nov. 12. About 14 residents attended, representing seven local properties that stand to be directly affected by the pipeline.

“It was a very rewarding meeting,” said Jeff Yull. “We let them know the perspective of the board and that that our first responsibility is the sovereignty of North Reading and the protection of property rights. We told the residents we will do what we can within the limits we have.” Yull said he felt the residents were satisfied when they left the meeting.