NCJ Number
211142
Journal
Law and Order Volume: 53 Issue: 8 Dated: August 2005 Pages: 94-100
Date Published
August 2005
Length
7 pages
Annotation
This article describes the features, benefits, and uses of the following less-lethal police tools: OC (oleoresin capsicum) spray, the PepperBall system, the FN 303 Less Lethal Launcher, 12-gauge impact projectiles, the taser, and 37mm/40mm projectiles.
Abstract
Since OC is nothing more than the oil of a hot pepper delivered through a spray canister, it has proven to be safe in various environments in facilitating the control of a resistant subject. This technology should be available for all field officers. The PepperBall launcher uses a .68 caliber plastic sphere filled with one of any number of substances. The projectile disperses OC powder upon impact. The PepperBall launcher produces both the shock and force of the projectile's impact and the discomfort of the OC. Overall, it is an excellent, low-level, less-lethal device that can produce rapid, multiple impacts coupled with a large magazine capacity. Working under a principal similar to the PepperBall system, the Fabrique Nationale (FN) 303 Less lethal Launcher is a more rifle-like device than other types of launchers. It fires an 8.5 gram, .68 caliber projectile designed to provide low-level blunt force trauma. Like other higher energy impact projectiles, they are capable of causing serious injury or even death in certain circumstances. Training is critical to its proper use. Beanbag impact projectiles fired with a 12-gauge shotgun are effective in delivering low-level impact. Specific shotguns should be designated for such projectiles, and they should be marked or color-coded so they are readily distinguished from regular lethal shotguns. Tasers physically incapacitate subjects, and their effectiveness in controlling a resistant subject has led many departments to issue them to every field officer. Finally, similar to larger versions of the less-lethal 12-gauge projectiles, the 37mm and 40mm less-lethal systems have proven to be effective in controlling subjects.