Forum to Address Stun Gun Controversy

February 14, 2005

News Release

Arlington, VA – The Potomac Institute for Policy Studies, in conjunction with Aegis Industries, Inc., will host a two-day forum, February 23-24, to analyze the medical, technological, safety, and policy issues surrounding the use of stun guns. The forum will bring together top experts to provide a comprehensive view of the issues associated with stun technologies. A press conference will be held on February 24 at 4:30pm, providing an overview of current risks and suggested policy reform related to the use of stun guns.

Stun devices are an intermediate force option intended to be an alternative to traditional types of firearms. However, with the recent increase in reports of deaths associated with stun injury, many people are asking whether the alternative is safe. Currently, over 100,000 law enforcement personnel use stun devices, and only a few states have regulations that bar civilians from owning a stun device of their own. The lack of consistent policy surrounding the use of these devices is driving law enforcement and military personnel to develop their own regulations, or suspend use of stun devices altogether. Stun technologies have been used to support a number of peacekeeping missions, and are used by first responders, military, and law enforcement.

If you would like to attend the press conference following the event, or would like additional information on the forum, please contact Meghan Blake, (703) 525-0770. RSVP is required.

The Potomac Institute for Policy Studies is an independent, 501(c)(3), not-for-profit public policy research institute, and is dedicated to the development and implementation of policies that advocate and manage the increasing role of science and technology in our evolving world.

Aegis Industries, Inc. specializes in the design and development of intermediate force options for the military, law enforcement, corrections, and the private security industry.