Controversial Crowd Control Weapon Tested in Calif. Jail

By Jerry ,  Newser User
Posted Aug 23, 2010 10:10 AM CDT Posted Aug 23, 2010 10:10 AM CDT
Promoted on Newser Aug 23, 2010 5:53 PM CDT
'Energy Weapon' Heats Up LA County Jail
Behave, or feel a yucky burning sensation.   (AP)

The first round of tests of a controversial crowd control energy weapon are set to begin at a Los Angeles County jail. The 7 1/2-foot-tall “Assault Intervention Device,” installed in a unit housing about 65 inmates, is controlled by a joystick and computer monitor and emits a CD-sized beam ... that just so happens to cause an awful burning sensation. The invisible beam, which can inflict pain up to 100 feet away, penetrates the skin ever so slightly—about 1/64th of an inch.

Deputies say no one can stand being in the beam's path for more than about three seconds. It's being tested for six months by the National Institute of Justice for use in jails nationwide. Read the full article at NBC Los Angeles. (More jail stories.)

Get the news faster.
Tap to install our app.
X
Install the Newser News app
in two easy steps:
1. Tap in your navigation bar.
2. Tap to Add to Home Screen.

X