FACTS

FACTS

About the Model x26 Electronic control device:

Uses a replaceable cartridge containing compressed nitrogen to deploy two small probes that are attached to the Taser by insulated conductive wires, with a maximum length of 35 feet.

Transmits electrical pulses along the wires and into the body, affecting the sensory and motor functions of the peripheral nervous system.

Pulse rate is 19 pulses per second. The trigger activates a five-second cycle. The cycle can be stopped by placing the safety lever in the safe position.

Peak open circuit arcing voltage: 50,000 volts. Peak loaded voltage: 1,200 volts.

The energy can penetrate up to 2 cumulative inches of clothing, or 1 inch per probe.

Cost, $1,000, includes power magazine, training target, training cartridges and field cartridges.

ADVANTAGES

From Taser research, available at the Web site www.taser.com:

The advantages to Taser technology are dramatic reductions in injuries to both suspects and law enforcement officers. Nationwide with more than 11,000 law enforcement agencies (out of 18,000) deploying Taser devices, officers can temporarily incapacitate subjects from zero to 35 feet away.

The advantage of a Taser is that it can immobilize a suspect who can overcome pain, might be on dangerous drugs such as cocaine or meth or even emotionally disturbed, whereas other tools of this type rely upon pain compliance. The Taser system doesn’t use pain compliance but immediately stops any coordinated action by the subject only while the Taser system’s current is flowing. Recovery is instantaneous, so the Taser system only provides a window of opportunity to temporarily stop someone’s dangerous actions.

CRITICISM

Amnesty International says the weapons have been involved in dozens of deaths in the United States and Canada. It also claims Tasers have been used gratuitously — against children or the elderly or on people posing no real threat.

A report by the Potomac Institute for Policy Studies said current research suggested stun guns were “relatively safe” when used appropriately. It noted that in all the cases in the Amnesty report, other factors could also have led to the deaths.

Some studies have indicated that those with drug problems or with existing heart weaknesses could be more susceptible to injury or death if a Taser is used.

Sources: Youngstown Police Department fiscal officer, Taser International, BBC News online,
Business Journal of Phoenix