By: Richard L. Smith
The Paterson Police Department (PPD) announced a significant shift in its law enforcement practices, as members of its patrol division have been equipped with conducted energy devices (CEDs), commonly known as Tasers.
This marks a major step forward in providing officers with more non-lethal options when dealing with uncooperative individuals.
The move, led by Officer in Charge Isa Abbassi, is part of a broader strategy to minimize the risk of fatal confrontations between officers and civilians.
“Equipping our officers with the most advanced tools is essential to ensuring they are among the best-trained and best-prepared law enforcement professionals in New Jersey,” said Abbassi. “With these devices, we are giving our officers an important resource that can help avoid tragic outcomes.”
CEDs are designed to stun and immobilize individuals, offering a less-lethal alternative to the use of deadly force. Research from the National Institute for Justice has shown that such devices can reduce injury rates for both officers and civilians. Studies suggest that police departments deploying Tasers and pepper spray have seen fewer injuries resulting from physical struggles during arrests.
In New Jersey, the use of CEDs is regulated by the Attorney General’s Supplemental Policy on Conducted Energy Devices, which was implemented statewide in 2016.
The policy mandates specific training and reporting standards for officers who carry Tasers, and while individual departments may choose whether or not to use the devices, those that do must comply with state guidelines.
The policy underscores that CEDs can, in some cases, be a life-saving alternative to deadly force.
Prior to this expansion, only members of the department’s Emergency Response Team were equipped with Tasers. Now, 48 patrol officers and supervisors—roughly 40% of the patrol division—have been trained to use the devices. Lieutenant Antonio Pistone, a veteran with 24 years of service, has been one of the lead instructors in charge of the training program.
Training sessions were conducted at Paterson Police Headquarters in early September, and additional training will continue throughout the fall to equip more members of the patrol division.
The deployment of CEDs is part of Abbassi’s broader Strategic Plan for the department, which aims to reduce the likelihood of violent outcomes during police encounters.
The plan also includes equipping all officers in the Field Services Bureau with pepper spray for use in situations where non-lethal force is necessary, particularly when de-escalation tactics have been exhausted.
As the patrol division is primarily responsible for responding to 911 calls, engaging with the community, and enforcing quality-of-life measures, the addition of CEDs provides officers with an additional layer of safety and flexibility in their day-to-day duties.
This initiative represents a significant investment in both training and equipment, as the department continues to prioritize public safety through the use of advanced law enforcement techniques.