Connecticut allows people who are at least 21 years old to carry Tasers or stun guns outside their homes if they have a gun permit. Read on for details.
Connecticut law defines an "electronic defense weapon" as a device that can temporarily immobilize someone with an electronic impulse or current. This definition should cover both stun guns and Tasers, despite their differences. The legal definition previously excluded devices that could inflict death or serious physical injury, but that exclusion was removed from the law in 2021.
(Conn. Gen. Stat. § 53a-3 (2024).)
It's a Class D or E felony in Connecticut to carry an electronic defense weapon on your person or in a vehicle unless you're 21 or older and you have a handgun permit or a gun eligibility certificate (which requires successful completion of a gun safety course). The permit requirement doesn't apply to on-duty peace officers or security guards.
(Conn. Gen. Stat. §§ 29-28, 53-206 (2024).)
It's a Class C felony to possess an electronic defense weapon in Connecticut—even in your own home—if you:
The law restricts probation eligibility for a conviction of this section.
(Conn. Gen. Stat. § 53a-217 (2024).)
It's a misdemeanor in Connecticut to injure someone with an electronic defense weapon or any other dangerous instrument through criminal negligence. You can also be charged with a felony if you use a stun gun or Taser while committing another felony. However, Connecticut courts have found that you can't be convicted for both criminal use of an electronic defense weapon and the underlying crime.
(Conn. Gen. Stat. §§ 53a-61, 53a-216 (2024); State v. Hardy, 858 A.2d 845 (Conn. Ct. App. 2004).)
If you've been charged with a crime that involves a stun gun or Taser, you should strongly consider speaking with a qualified criminal defense attorney as soon as possible.