(MOBILE, Ala.) June 29 -- It was a close vote, but resource officers in Mobile County Schools will not be armed with tasers when kids head back to school in the fall. Some board members say putting a weapon in the hands of officers who walk school halls could open doors for lawsuits.
For now security guards and resource officers in Mobile County Schools will stay defenseless. It's a fight Superintendent Dr. Roy Nichols has lost for now.
"I'm disappointed we were not able to put some means of protection in the hands of officers tonight," Nichols said. Security guards used to carry guns at schools, but legislation in 2006 banned it.
School board President Ken Megginson was hoping the tasers would give officers the upper hand.
"We have been very concerned ever since them about the safety of our security guards and students," Megginson said.
