stun guns

Question
I am curious if carrying a stun gun in public was legal? I impound and reposses vehicles in California. At times I am confronted by large groups of angry persons as well as intoxicated individuals. I do carry "peppper foam", but at times, such in rough neighborhoods, I don't think that will be enough protection. Can you tell me if I am in the legal realm of carrying a stun gun on my side? Thank you for your attention.  

Answer
Nathan,

Since I live in Michigan, I'm not much of an expert on specific laws in other states. I was, however, able to find some information at findlaw.com that seems to indicate it is legal to carry a stun gun if you meet certain requirements, which seem similar to those you'd need to purchase a firearm. The relevent portion of California Law appears to be Sections 12650 through 12654.

You may want to contact your local Sheriff's Office or Police Department and ask. Below is what I found at FindLaw.com:

PENAL CODE SECTION 12650-12654


12650.  "Stun gun" as used in this chapter shall include any item, except a taser, used or intended to be used as either an offensive or defensive weapon capable of  temporarily immobilizing a person by the infliction of an electrical charge.

12651.  Notwithstanding any other provision of law, any person may purchase, possess, or use a stun gun, subject to the following requirements:
  (a) No person convicted of a felony or any crime involving an assault under the laws of the United States, of the State of California, or any other state, government, or country or convicted of misuse of a stun gun under Section 244.5, shall purchase, possess, or use stun guns.
  (b) No person who is addicted to any narcotic drug shall purchase, possess, or use a stun gun.
  (c) No person shall sell or furnish any stun gun to a minor unless the minor is at least 16 years of age and has the written consent of his or her parent or  legal guardian.
  Violation of this subdivision shall be a public offense punishable by a fifty dollar ($50) fine for the first offense.  Any subsequent violation of this subdivision is a misdemeanor.
  (d) No minor shall possess any stun gun unless the minor is at least 16 years of age and has the written consent of his or her parent or legal guardian.

12652.  Each stun gun sold shall contain both of the following:
  (a) The name of the manufacturer stamped on the stun gun.
  (b) The serial number applied by the manufacturer.

12653.  Unless otherwise specified, any violation of this article is a misdemeanor.

12654.  Each stun gun sold in this state shall be accompanied by an instruction booklet.
  Violation of this section shall be a public offense punishable by a fifty dollar ($50) fine for each weapon sold without the booklet.


This information may be out-of-date, but was the best I could find after a brief search. Contacting the aforementioned agencies will likely give you the best information.

Sorry I couldn't be more helpful,


Kyle