Suits filed in alleged school Taser demonstration

[February 04, 2010]  KANKAKEE (AP) -- Two federal lawsuits each seek more than $10 million on behalf of two Illinois 12-year-olds allegedly shocked during an unauthorized Taser demonstration by a school officer.

Police say the officer is on administrative leave following the Tuesday incident at a junior high in Kankakee, about 60 miles south of Chicago.

The officer allegedly used the Taser on three students who volunteered for the demonstration. A parent later took one student to a hospital, where he was examined and released.

The lawsuits filed Thursday name the police officer, the city, the school district and two teachers. Messages seeking comment have been left with city and school district officials.

The boys' attorney, James Meeks, says they also want the officer fired and criminal charges filed.

[Associated Press]

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