ABSTRACT
A semantic debate of questionable consequence is the terminology choice of non- or less-lethal. Less lethal devices used in the civilian environment range from just a tactical choice and application to a strategic choice that, when feasible, may reduce negative outcomes on multiple levels. The US military has often been called to perform peace-keeping duties and this too requires the ability to use something other than lethal force. With a near-ubiquitous presence of conducted energy devices (CED's) in law enforcement agencies, and significant numbers of correctional facilities issuing pepper spray to some or all officers or supervisors, less lethal technologies offer the potential for reduced injuries to subjects and officers. The effect of using CEWs has also brought less use of lethal and less lethal force. The various issues of data collection and analysis are of concern in all uses of force, lethal and less lethal.
