Anacortes approves purchase of Axon Taser 10s for police department

The Anacortes City Council on Dec. 15 approved a five‑year contract with Axon Enterprise to procure APD Model 10 electronic control devices (often called "tasers"). The contract (26‑027‑APTD‑001) was presented as an operational necessity because the department’s existing X26 devices are no longer supported by the manufacturer.

APD’s chief described technical differences the department cited in favor of Model 10: a maximum effective range of about 45 feet (compared with roughly 25 feet for the legacy model), multi‑probe cartridges allowing multiple single‑trigger deployments for more precise targeting, and audible/visual warning features that may serve as de‑escalation tools. The device integrates with Axon’s evidence management ecosystem to record deployments (time, duration, cycles) and simplify recordkeeping, training and reporting.

The chief said taser deployments are rare—on average two or fewer uses per year in recent history—but argued the device is a less‑lethal option that can prevent escalation to lethal force. Council members asked about VR training compatibility, holster fit and contract length; staff confirmed the VR training system can be adapted and that the contract is five years, after which the city will own the equipment.

Councilmember Cleland McGrath moved and the council approved the contract by roll‑call vote. The contract amount presented was $136,435.20 to be spread over five years.