NCJ Number
217625
Journal
Journal of Forensic Identification Volume: 57 Issue: 2 Dated: March/April 2007 Pages: 223-229
Date Published
March 2007
Length
7 pages
Annotation
This article demonstrates a method for locating the expended Anti-Felon Identification (AFID) (serialized identification disk) placed in Tasers, using an alternate light source.
Abstract
The colors of the Anti-Felon Identifications (AFIDs) are effective in that they fluoresce with the use of an alternate light source, thus making them easy to locate and photograph. Also, the AFIDs may help to establish the approximate location where the Taser was fired. It is recommended that due to the AFIDs vulnerability to wind and other environmental factors, reconstruction efforts should include test firings with similar conditions and it must be recognized that this will only lead to an approximation of deployment locations. The Taser is designed to function as a nonlethal alternative to the use of a firearm in a situation requiring personal defense. The model X26 used in this research fires two darts connected to electrical filament lines. In order to track the weapon’s use, the cartridges containing the projectile darts are given serial numbers. When fired, the projectiles are accompanied by 20 to 30 vibrantly colored circular paper tags, a little smaller than one-quarter inch in diameter. The tag is known as an AFID with each AFID bearing a serial number printed on it corresponding to the serial number of the cartridge from which it was fired. Despite the bright colors of the AFIDs, their size makes them very difficult to detect. This presentation demonstrates a method for locating the released AFIDs using an alternate light source. Figures, references