FORSYTH COUNTY, Ga. — The Forsyth County Sheriff’s Office could receive a new de-escalation tool that allows for remote restraints.
The sheriff’s office plans to apply for a $11,518 grant starting Oct. 16 to fund the purchase of the BolaWrap device, according to county documents. BolaWrap deploys a 7.5-foot Kevlar tether that can be wrapped around a person’s arm or leg without causing physical harm, according to Wrap Technologies, which makes the device.
It also has a laser sight for precise aiming and makes a sound to diffuse the situation.
Deputies have already used Tasers, bean bag guns and rubber bullets, said Stacey Miller, the department’s public affairs officer and director of external communications.
BolaWraps can deploy a tether to a person from up to 8 feet away. This allows law enforcement officers to immobilize a person without direct contact.
“The technology focuses on immobilization rather than incapacitation, making it a suitable option for nonviolent conflict resolution,” Rap Technologies said.
A 2011 U.S. Department of Justice investigation found that Tasers can cause injuries and even death. Beanbag guns and rubber bullets can also cause serious injuries, the New York Times reported.
According to the National Police Association, less-lethal tools can help law enforcement save lives and de-escalate situations where a suspect poses an immediate threat to others.
BolaWrap also comes with a virtual reality headset for training law enforcement.
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