Prisons to arm some officers with stun guns

LANSING (AP) -- Michigan's state prison system plans to start a pilot program giving some corrections officers stun guns or Tasers. Department of Corrections spokesman Russ Marlan says the devices would be used to help break up fights between prisoners and help officers subdue prisoners if they're attacked by them. Marlan said breaking up assaults more quickly could help the prison system save money on medical treatment and workers' compensation costs. The department has ordered about 100 stun guns. They will be given to officers where fights are most frequent such as food halls and prison yards. Marlan said the devices have been used in some other state prison systems. Published: Thu, Oct 13, 2011