The Expansion of Conducted Energy Weapon Use in Ontario: Pacification and Policy Development

This thesis examines the Ontario government’s decision to allow for the expansion of Conducted Energy Weapons (CEWs) to all front-line police officers. I utilize a framework of pacification strategies that illustrate the way in which police services, particularly the Ottawa Police Service, should implement a CEW policy for the deployment of the weapon in order to achieve effective police-community partnerships. The decision to expand CEWs demonstrates an abdication of responsibility on the part of the province to local police agencies and the new policy provides little guidance. It is important that local agencies develop strong and effective CEW policies for the purpose of enhancing public and police safety as well as ensuring meaningful accountability in Ontario. I analyze several provincial and agency CEW guidelines in order to facilitate the development of effective CEW guidelines at the agency level and, importantly, to ensure accountability for when these weapons are deployed.