NCJ Number
174495
Journal
Law and Order Volume: 46 Issue: 8 Dated: August 1998 Pages: 49-52
Date Published
1998
Length
4 pages
Annotation
This article examines and discusses police use of tasers
Abstract
Calls for police service that involves the emotionally disturbed, the alcohol/drug fueled or exceptionally motivated and determined combatants have until recently left the police with few options but use of physical abilities, impact weapons and firearms. Modern technology has provided a unique device that offers police a new, non-lethal approach to resistive situations where a weapon is not present but which are characterized by brute force violence. The Taser is a device that fires two darts into a target. The darts discharge an electrical impulse when striking the target, causing an immediate cessation of aggressive activity. The electricity interrupts the bodyþs neuromuscular contractions, what has been described as a þcharley horse effect.þ The voltage is well below the danger level, but it produces disorientation, loss of motor control and uncontrollable nerve spasms. The subject loses the physical ability to fight and can be subdued by an arresting officer without injury to either party.