There are students who want to feel safe on campus, and even some who may need to carry protection like mace or a Taser gun. For these students, both weapons are allowed on SLCC campuses.
“If campus was in a sketchy neighborhood, I would probably be more inclined to carry something for protection. It is nice to think of having these things available. But the responsibility, I feel, would be too great,” says SLCC student Zach Frazier.
According to SLCC’s Director of Public Safety, Shane Crabtree, the use of mace and pepper spray is allowed on campus.
“You would be responsible for any deployment of those items. But they don’t fall in the dangerous weapons category where you would need a permit to carry,” says Highway Patrolman and Campus Policeman Phil Waters.
Deployment refers to the use of the item in question. However, if a can of mace deploys on accident or a stun gun randomly fires, the student carrying the item would face disciplinary actions.
“You would be responsible for the consequences if it were an accidental deployment,” says Officer Waters.
When someone feels that their safety is at great risk, the use of mace or a Taser gun is justified. There are many who do not know that a Taser gun and mace can be carried around on campus.
“I didn’t know we could use them, but I would be more likely to carry mace than a Taser. I would be too afraid that I would accidentally tase myself,” says SLCC student Siri Briscoe. “I’m not sure I would want to carry either. The option is nice though.”
Students who don’t know mace and Tasers are allowed on campus are likely not to carry them anyway. But it is an option for a student if he or she feels the desire to have one.
If a weapon was used irresponsibly, the campus police would be able to see what happened through security cameras.
“We also have a great security system set up here at the school,” says Waters.
Major conflicts at SLCC are a rarity, but doesn’t mean that it never happens. There is still a chance that a student or instructor could be approached by an unknown assailant at any moment.
