TASER Electronic Control Devices Can Cause Cardiac Arrest in Humans

Abstract

The TASER X26 electronic control device (ECD) is a handgun-shaped device that uses compressed nitrogen to fire darts ranging from 9 to 14 mm in length that impale the clothes or skin of an individual up to a distance of 35 ft. Wires connect the darts to the device. The TASER X26 functions as a constant current generator and delivers an initial 50 000-V to begin an arcing shock (the actual voltage delivered to the body is in the range of 1400–2520 V), followed by electric pulses of 105- to 155-microsecond duration, at a frequency of ≈19 Hz (≈1140 times per minute), and 80- to 125-microcoulomb delivered charge.1 A single trigger pull discharges a 5-second cycle that can be shortened by a safety switch to deactivate the device or prolonged if the trigger pull is held. The trigger can be activated multiple times. The X26 data port stores the time and date of use and number and duration of trigger pulls. If effective, the shock elicits neuromuscular inhibition, allowing law enforcement to gain control of a suspect (see www.youtube.com/watch?v=ACUjnJBHIZc for a TASER demonstration). The device can also be applied in a “drive-stun” mode by directly pressing the X26 ECD against the skin to achieve pain compliance without neuromuscular inhibition. The TASER X26 is the most widely sold ECD. Called a less lethal or nonlethal weapon because it is supposed to be deployed to temporarily incapacitate, not to kill the subject, the X26 is not considered a firearm and therefore is not regulated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives. Response by Kroll et al on p 111 The purpose of this article is to present information to support the conclusion that the TASER X26 ECD can cause cardiac arrest in humans. As noted in an earlier article, …