Hurt by a taser or stun gun? You may have a case.
If you were injured by a police officer using a taser or stun gun in South Carolina, you may be able to file a lawsuit for excessive force or police misconduct. These weapons are meant to be used as non-lethal tools, but when misused, they can cause serious injuries—or even death. At The Law Office of Joshua P. Golson, we represent victims of taser and stun gun abuse in Columbia and throughout South Carolina.
We understand how overwhelming it can be to go up against law enforcement. But if your rights were violated, you deserve answers—and compensation. Whether the officer made a mistake or acted with clear disregard for your safety, we can help you take legal action.
When Is Taser or Stun Gun Use Considered Excessive Force?
Law enforcement officers are allowed to use tasers in certain situations, usually to stop someone who is actively resisting or posing a threat. But there are clear lines they should not cross. When those lines are crossed, their actions may be unlawful—and victims have the right to sue.
Some examples of taser or stun gun misuse include:
- Using the weapon on someone who is already restrained or not resisting
- Firing a taser multiple times in a row (causing prolonged shock)
- Deploying it near flammable materials or gas (causing a fire hazard)
- Aiming for the face, neck, eyes, or genitals
- Using a taser on people who are elderly, pregnant, disabled, or medically fragile—unless there’s a clear threat
- Failing to follow training protocols or department policies
- Shocking someone in a way that causes them to fall from a height or into traffic
Not every use of a taser is justified. Officers must follow proper procedures, and they are expected to weigh the risks before using force. If they don’t, they can and should be held responsible.
Common Injuries from Taser and Stun Gun Abuse
Tasers and stun guns can cause more than just temporary pain. Victims may suffer long-term damage—or even lose their lives—depending on how and where the weapon was used.
Some examples of injuries linked to taser misuse include:
- Cardiac arrest or irregular heartbeat
- Brain trauma from falls or head impact
- Burns and skin damage from prolonged exposure
- Eye injuries or permanent vision loss
- Broken bones or torn ligaments
- Nerve damage or long-term muscle issues
- Death from complications or improper use
Even if your injuries seem “invisible,” they can still be serious. Internal injuries, psychological trauma, or neurological effects may take time to show up. If you were shocked by law enforcement, it's important to get medical attention right away—and to document everything.
Legal Options for Victims of Taser Abuse
Taser abuse lawsuits are typically filed under federal or state law, depending on the circumstances. In many cases, victims pursue claims under:
1. 42 U.S. Code § 1983 – Civil Rights Lawsuits
This federal law allows people to sue when a government official (like a police officer) violates their constitutional rights. Taser abuse often falls under excessive force claims, especially if the officer acted unreasonably or without justification.
2. South Carolina Tort Claims Act
This law allows people to sue government agencies or employees for negligence or wrongdoing. While there are limits on how and when you can sue, it is another route for holding officers or departments accountable.
In either case, your attorney will need to prove that the officer’s actions were not reasonable based on the situation. That might include evidence like body camera footage, eyewitness accounts, police reports, medical records, or expert testimony.
Why These Cases Can Be Challenging
Police departments and officers often claim "qualified immunity"—a legal shield that can block lawsuits unless it’s clearly shown that their actions violated someone’s rights. This makes it essential to build a strong, detailed case.
Another common hurdle is causation—proving that the taser actually caused your injuries. For example, if you have a pre-existing medical condition, the defense might argue that your injuries weren’t the officer’s fault. That’s why medical evidence and expert testimony are key to these cases.
We work with trusted professionals to investigate what happened, review your medical records, and show the direct link between the officer’s actions and your injuries.
Who Can File a Taser Abuse Lawsuit in South Carolina?
If you were personally injured by a taser or stun gun used by law enforcement, you may be eligible to sue. In fatal cases, surviving family members may be able to bring a wrongful death claim.
Whether you were targeted during an arrest, traffic stop, protest, or any other situation, we want to hear your story. Even if you were charged with a crime, you still have rights—and those rights cannot be violated without consequences.
Talk to a Columbia Taser Abuse Lawyer Today
At The Law Office of Joshua P. Golson, we take police misconduct seriously. If you or a loved one has been injured by the misuse of a taser or stun gun, don’t stay silent. We’re here to help you take the next step.
Our office is based in Columbia, but we help clients throughout South Carolina. We’ll listen to what happened, explain your legal options, and fight to get you the justice and compensation you deserve.
Contact us today to schedule your free consultation. We don’t back down from tough cases—and we’re ready to stand up for you.
