Memorandum

City of Lawrence

Police Department

TO:	David L. Corliss, City Manager
FROM:	Rob Murry, Sergeant
CC:	Tarik Khatib, Chief of Police
	Paul Fellers, Captain
DATE:	January 14, 2015
RE:	TASER International Payment

Background

The department adopted a Taser program in 2008.  The department currently utilizes the Taser brand, X26 model and has an inventory of 40 Tasers.  The X26 model is a single shot model which has a one (1) year manufacturer’s warranty, and has a life expectancy of five (5) years.  The X26 model has older technology than newer models provided by the same company.  Effective December 31, 2014, Taser International discontinued the Taser X26 model.  It is no longer available for purchase or for use as a replacement by the manufacturer when factory repair is required. 

Findings

Taser International has continued to research and manufacture additional products since our department adopted the program.  One product which was evaluated and determined to be the best choice for a replacement of the aging and now discontinued X26 model is Taser’s X2 model.  The X2 model is similar in size and appearance, but has several advantages.  The X2 model provides a second shot ability without the necessity for a reload.  The X2 model can complete a circuit if the negative probe from one cartridge and the positive probe from a second cartridge complete the circuit.  The X2 model is similar to the X26 model, but has a different shape which requires new holsters for issue to officers once they have completed the training program designed for transitioning to the new model.  Additionally, the X2 model requires different cartridges than the X26 model.     

The new X2 model was selected in the first quarter of 2014.  The decision was made to purchase and implement the new X2 model in the first quarter of 2015 after the X26 model was no longer available. 

Budget Effect

Replacement of the current inventory of Taser X26 models with the X2 model is $39,998.  The remaining $23,169.08 is for cartridges for duty use, cartridges for training purposes, batteries (maintenance) and holsters to be issued to officers qualified to carry the Taser. 

Recommendation

Approve payment of $63,167.08 to TASER International for the replacement Taser X2 model, along with the associated equipment purchased for maintenance, training and deployment.  TASER International is a sole source for this purchase.