NCJ Number
226241
Journal
Police Chief Volume: 76 Issue: 2 Dated: February 2009 Pages: 52-54,56,57
Date Published
February 2009
Length
5 pages
Annotation
This article discusses the increased use of lasers as weapons, and the need for law enforcement’s increased awareness of criminals and terrorists’ use of these devices.
Abstract
Lasers are designed in various wavelengths and powers, and they are classified according to the type and the amount of damage they can cause to living tissue. With lasers becoming more commonplace and more easily accessible, the danger of individuals or groups using them to inflict harm has risen. The introduction of laser use laws may discourage many pranksters, but there are many who will disregard any such laws and regulations. Technology is now providing cheaper, smaller, more powerful, more efficient lasers which allows for potential abuse to remain. Whatever the motivation is malicious intent or misguided amusement, recent laser incidents should drive law enforcement agencies to take measures to guard against injury to their officers and members of the community they serve. This article describes the laser and its many usages with particular emphasis on the potential danger of lasers in the hands of criminals or terrorists. 17 notes