In regards to the Tasering incident on campus during the Kerry forum, the UPD officers acted appropriately in the handling of Meyer. Students and faculty quick to cry out that this was an injustice need to objectively look at this situation and realize Meyer caused the incident, not the police.
As a former Senate Page, I used to work feet away from senators, including Kerry. Meyer's behavior was unprofessional, disrespectful, and a stain on UF's reputation. It is impossible to have an intellectual
discussion when someone behaves the way Meyer chose to.
Given the various video angles of the incident, Meyer left the police no choice in their actions. They have a sworn duty to protect the audience and the high-profile speaker present in the room. Such behavior in the Capitol Building or in Washington, D.C., would have elicited a much stronger response. UF President Bernie Machen should not have to deal with media inquiries relating to a student's poor judgment. UPD should not be decried for dealing with this situation appropriately.
