Electronic Restraint Devices

Electronic restraint devices (ERDs), also referred to as electromuscular disruption technology, electronic control devices, and electronic control weapons, are a form of electronic restraint used for containing, securing, and restraining the activities of dangerous prisoners as well as aggressive, uncooperative suspects, generally by incapacitating neuromuscular functions and inhibiting motor control. An ERD is one form of available electronic policing tool used to assist law enforcement personnel in the capture of alleged suspects in a less-than-lethal manner. ERDs are frequently used when transporting dangerous prisoners from one [Page 341]location to the other as well as to prevent assaults on law enforcement. ERDs are also used in prisons and jails as restraint solutions to prevent and/or minimize suicide attempts by prisoners and assaults on prison personnel. ERDs ...