Law enforcement agencies employ various conducted energy weapons (CEWs) for incapacitating subjects through high-voltage, low-amperage electrical discharges. These devices, often shaped like pistols or batons, disrupt neuromuscular function, causing temporary muscle paralysis. Commonly deployed models include the TASER X26P and TASER 7, which feature cartridges containing barbed probes that connect to the device via thin wires. Alternatively, some models employ direct contact electrodes.
The adoption of CEWs provides officers with a less-lethal option for managing confrontational situations, potentially reducing injuries to both subjects and officers compared to physical force or firearms. This technology aims to bridge the gap between verbal commands and deadly force, offering a graduated response in escalating encounters. Their introduction followed a growing need for effective tools to control resisting or combative individuals while minimizing the risk of serious harm. The specific models chosen by a department often depend on factors such as budget, device features, and training requirements.