The Harlan City Police Department has received a grant to purchase new taser equipment. The grant was awarded by the Kentucky League of Cities Insurance Services.
Harlan Mayor Danny Howard said the grant will be a help to the city.
“We use every opportunity to make our city safer,” said Howard.
Harlan City Police Chief Mike Thomas said his department has used tasers for years.
“It’s a great tool for law enforcement,” said Thomas. “Many studies prove that agencies that use them have lower rates of officer and suspect injuries. This grant allows for replacement units, cartridges and batteries that we have a need for from time to time. We have used this grant the past few years and we are very grateful for it.”
According to Thomas, the equipment has already been purchased and put into use by his officers.
Howard said grants such as this are a “practical way to make the city’s budget go further, as well as provide products that will enhance public safety.”
According to a press release, the Kentucky League of Cities has awarded in excess of $3.2 million since the start of the safety grant program in 1999. The awarded funds are used for training, sidewalk repairs, confined space equipment, law enforcement accreditation fees, slip resistant shoes and other such equipment in order to improve safety for employees and the public.
Reach Joe P. Asher at 606-573-4510, ext. 113, jasher@civitasmedia.com


















