Tasing the Badge: A Retired Cop’s Shocking Mistake

In an alarming tale from Mount Vernon, a retired police sergeant has found himself in hot water after a shocking misuse of his Taser. Mario Stewart, who continued to serve until his retirement in 2023, faced serious consequences for tasing a restrained 20-year-old man—yes, you heard that right—at least seven times during a health crisis in 2019. A federal judge had some harsh words for him, noting that residents of Mount Vernon should never have to fear those sworn to protect them. We’re guessing the ‘thin blue line’ is feeling a little more like a tightrope after this incident.

What’s alarming is not just what Stewart did, but how long he was on the job afterward. One can’t help but wonder how accountability works in law enforcement if it takes this long to deal with misconduct. U.S. District Judge Kenneth M. Karas made it clear that this kind of behavior was intolerable and that officers must adhere to the rules designed to keep everyone safe. It’s a sobering reminder of how sometimes the ones meant to uphold the law instead seem to think it doesn’t apply to them—how ironic.

Could this case serve as a catalyst for police reform? As the debate over law enforcement policies rages on, this incident adds another layer of complexity to an already heated conversation. If you were in charge, what changes would you insist on to ensure something like this doesn’t happen again? Let’s hear your thoughts!

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