NCJ Number
179761
Journal
Law and Order Volume: 47 Issue: 10 Dated: October 1999 Pages: 213-216
Date Published
1999
Length
4 pages
Annotation
Presentational tools known as laser pointers are of great concern to police due to their potential for misuse and the hazard they pose to eyes.
Abstract
Laser pointers are grouped into five major classes based on the emission level and the hazard posed to the eye. Makers of laser pointers contend that their products have important uses. Police can use them in crime scene investigations, accident scene investigations, stakeouts, building searches, tactical applications, and the squad room. Many sports arenas and schools have banned laser pointers. Some laws make it illegal to sell, attempt to sell, or give a laser pointer to a minor or to point a laser at a law enforcement officer, at an animal, into someone's eyes, or into a moving vehicle. Improperly used laser pointers can also pose a traffic hazard and a personal threat to motorists. In addition, it is difficult or impossible for police to distinguish a red dot projected by a mischievous youth from a laser pointer attached to a gun. The threat laser pointers pose to police or citizens who have prior military experience is also potentially dangerous. Actions recommended to address the danger of laser pointers include legislation prohibiting pointing a laser pointer at police officers, police agency rules concerning the confiscation of laser pointers from those who misuse them, and police training on pointers and their dangers. Photograph