NYC Safety Tips – Do Any of You Carry a Stun Gun Or Taser With You in NYC?

NYC is a cosmopolitan city full of world-famous skyscrapers and cultural icons, but it also possesses one of the most violent cultures in America. A recent study found that murders and shootings are up 97 percent and 44 percent citywide, respectively, compared with 2020. That’s a big concern for New Yorkers, especially those who live in the five boroughs where a lot of violence occurs.

Stun guns are a form of self-defense that temporarily immobilizes people by delivering a high-voltage electric shock, while Tasers deliver high-intensity bursts of electricity that can incapacitate an attacker in seconds. But the laws that regulate stun guns and Tasers are different in each state, so it’s important to know which ones apply in your area.

A federal judge ruled that the ban on stun guns is unconstitutional in March, but that doesn’t mean they are now legal to carry in New York. There are still some laws that prohibit them, including criminal possession of a weapon in the fourth degree and carrying them on a public transportation platform without a permit.

There are some safety tips to follow for a safer trip to NYC, but there’s no guarantee you’ll avoid an encounter with an attacker. If you find yourself in a dangerous situation, remember to stay calm and avoid confrontation.

It’s a good idea to take along a friend, particularly if you’re traveling alone, because they can give you an extra layer of protection. They can also call the police to let them know you’re in the city if an incident occurs and you need assistance.

If you’re a woman, it’s also important to keep a close eye on your wallet or purse. It’s common for robberies to occur in public areas and many banks, supermarkets, stores and other businesses have metal detectors to prevent a thief from getting their hands on valuable items.

In the event that you do get into an altercation with a stranger, the first thing to do is get away from them as quickly as possible. This means avoiding crowds, taking cover and retreating from any suspicious activity or noise.

Once you’ve gotten out of the threat zone, it’s a good idea to have your phone with you so you can take a picture or video of the incident to help you later. Then, if you need to contact emergency services, you’ll have evidence to use in court.

The NYPD will arrest you for the possession of any per se weapons (electronic stun guns, slingshots and blackjacks) or other weapons that are considered weapons by law in New York, regardless of where you are. They will also issue you a New York City Desk Appearance Ticket and a court date.

There’s a reason the NYPD has been cracking down on stun guns and other defensive weapons. It’s because they can be a quick and effective method of self-defense, but can also result in serious injuries or death if used wrongly.