NCJ Number
158030
Date Published
1995
Length
24 pages
Annotation
The National Institute of Justice Less-Than-Lethal (LTL) Weapons Technology and Policy Assesment Project addressed issues related to civil law liability that may result from the use of LTL technologies by law enforcement and corrections agencies.
Abstract
The LTL task group identified a framework in which to examine civil law liability for emerging LTL technologies; assessed legal liability posed by LTL technologies developed in defense, intelligence, and private sector arenas; and recommended courses of action for law enforcement agencies to reduce liability. The LTL task group was also concerned with the feasibility of and training and orientation issues associated with technologies. The focus was on Oleoresin Capsicum spray, sticky and aqueous foams, and microwave technology. These technologies were evaluated with respect to training and policies, product components, manufacturing integrity, medical and toxicological issues, police officer decisionmaking, State and Federal regulatory issues, and third-party bystanders.