Guidebook for Less-lethal Devices: Planning for, Selecting, and Implementing Technology Solutions

• NCJ Number: 234054
• Date Published: March 2010
• Length: 94 pages
• Grant Number(s): 2007-DE-BX-K009
• Agencies: NIJ-Sponsored
• Publication Type: Technical Assistance; Instructional Material
• Award: Operationalizing Calmatives -- Legal Issues, Concepts and Technologies

Annotation

This guide presents a comprehensive view of less-lethal technologies, their evolutionary role in criminal justice, and considerations that should be addressed when acquiring such devices for operational needs.

Abstract

The manual's six chapters consist of an introduction; operational contexts and considerations; research testing and evaluation; overview of less-lethal technologies; planning for, acquiring, and managing less-lethal technology; and challenges to implementation. The chapter that provides an overview of less-lethal technologies considers mechanical and kinetic devices, conducted-energy devices, directed energy devices, and barriers and entanglements. Readers are cautioned that no particular technology is appropriate for all circumstances and that the information in this guidebook is to assist readers in independently evaluating their specific circumstances. Operational scenario work sheet samples are provided, along with a glossary.