Wrap Technologies raises bias concerns about grants for less-lethal tools
The Illinois Criminal Justice Information Authority (ICJIA) recently granted $19 million for police forces to acquire "less-lethal" tools, aiming to provide officers with alternatives to guns in resolving potentially violent situations. However, the grant distribution has primarily benefited Axon, the makers of Taser, raising concerns about fairness and diversity of options.
Retired Seguin Police Chief Terry Nichols, now with Wrap Technologies, highlights the BolaWrap, a non-lethal device resembling a modern lasso, as a safer alternative. While Tasers have raised concerns due to associated deaths, BolaWrap has not resulted in fatalities or lawsuits for excessive force.
Despite BolaWrap's proven effectiveness and widespread adoption by more than 1000 police forces nationwide, the grant predominantly focuses on Tasers. Nichols criticizes the lack of diversity in the grant allocation and the biased listing of Taser as the sole vendor, suggesting a deliberate choice.
Attempts to include BolaWrap as a pre-approved device for grant funding were denied, leaving police agencies seeking alternative funding sources. This contrasts with the Law Enforcement Camera Grant Act, which does not specify vendors, allowing agencies to choose freely.
The discrepancy between grant programs underscores the need for fair and inclusive procurement practices in law enforcement equipment acquisition, particularly in light of recent legislative mandates such as the requirement for body-worn cameras.
Retired Seguin Police Chief Terry Nichols, now with Wrap Technologies, highlights the BolaWrap, a non-lethal device resembling a modern lasso, as a safer alternative. While Tasers have raised concerns due to associated deaths, BolaWrap has not resulted in fatalities or lawsuits for excessive force.
Despite BolaWrap's proven effectiveness and widespread adoption by more than 1000 police forces nationwide, the grant predominantly focuses on Tasers. Nichols criticizes the lack of diversity in the grant allocation and the biased listing of Taser as the sole vendor, suggesting a deliberate choice.
Attempts to include BolaWrap as a pre-approved device for grant funding were denied, leaving police agencies seeking alternative funding sources. This contrasts with the Law Enforcement Camera Grant Act, which does not specify vendors, allowing agencies to choose freely.
The discrepancy between grant programs underscores the need for fair and inclusive procurement practices in law enforcement equipment acquisition, particularly in light of recent legislative mandates such as the requirement for body-worn cameras.
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