Thursday, August 7, 2008 --- 1:40 p.m.

EDWARDSVILLE, Ill. (AP) -- Some churches keep police officers in their prayers. First Baptist Church of Maryville sends them money for Tasers.

The Metro East church has donated cash to the Maryville and Marine police departments to buy stun guns.

The church says using the volt-dispensing device could be safer for both police and the suspect. And the church says the donations are meant to show its care for the well-being of law enforcers.

Maryville police already have three stun guns the officers share, but a sergeant says having an extra one will be valuable.

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