Human Effectiveness and Risk Characterization of the Electromuscular Incapacitation Device - A Limited Analysis of the TASER. Part 1. Technical Report

摘要

A Human Effectiveness and Risk Characterization for Electromuscular Incapacitation (EMI) reflects the results from three workshops (data gathering/sharing, peer consultation, and independent external review) evaluating two EMI devices: the M26 and X26 TASERS. The intended effect of these devices is electromuscular disruption. Key potential unintended effects included ocular injury, seizures, ventricular fibrillation, or fall injuries. The likelihood of these effects were determined, based on an analysis of the TASER International Database (scrubbed to minimize false positives) and modeling. The probability of inducing a complete EMD ranges from 74% to 52% depending on distance to the target. Probability estimates were up to 0.0.4% for eye strikes and 0.15% for fall injuries depending on distance to the target. Ventricular fibrillation (VF) is not expected to occur in an otherwise healthy adult population. Key data gaps include the biological basis for TASER effects and appropriate dosimetry. The results support the conclusion that the M26 and X26 TASERS are generally effective for their intended use.