The deterrent tone produced by the L-Rad, a long-range acoustic device, can cause permanent hearing loss and physical pain when used for crowd control.
The use of L-Rads by law enforcement during protests raises concerns about the escalating militarization of police and the lack of regulations surrounding their potential health risks.
Deep dives
The L-Rad: A Controversial Device for Crowd Control
The L-Rad, also known as a sound cannon, is a long-range acoustic device used for communication and crowd control. It employs two functions: a voice function for long-range communication and a deterrent tone for crowd dispersal. The deterrent tone is extremely loud, reaching up to 160 decibels, which can cause pain, hearing loss, and other physical effects. While the L-Rad was initially developed for communication at sea, it has found uses in various situations, including natural disasters and protests. However, the use of the deterrent tone for crowd control has led to legal action and concerns about excessive force and potential injuries.
The Mechanics and Controversies of the L-Rad
The L-Rad's design is based on the concept of a highly concentrated beam of sound. It projects sound in a specific direction, like a beam from a flashlight, resulting in a loud and focused sound. This physical design allows the L-Rad to be capable of emitting sound that is as loud as a jet taking off or even louder. The intensity of the sound can cause permanent hearing damage and physical pain. While some argue that the L-Rad is a valuable tool for communication and non-lethal crowd control, others raise concerns about the potential health risks, disorientation, and the blurred line between communication and excessive force.
L-Rads in Law Enforcement and the Debate on Militarization
The use of L-Rads by law enforcement has become more common, with these devices being used during protests in several states. The availability of military-grade technologies to police departments raises questions about the escalating militarization of law enforcement. While L-Rads can provide long-range communication capabilities, their use for crowd control has generated controversy. Critics argue that the sound emitted by L-Rads can cause serious injuries and question the lack of regulations surrounding their use. Medical and audiological associations have spoken out against the use of L-Rads, citing potential permanent hearing loss and other adverse effects. The debate raises broader concerns about the impact of advanced weapons on citizens' safety and the need for public awareness and decision-making on such matters.
The Long-Range Acoustic Device, or LRAD, was developed for the military for long-range communication at sea. But this ear-splitting device has also been fired on protesters across America, resulting in lawsuits and permanent hearing loss. In this episode, we explore the history, science and effects of the so-called “sound cannon.” Featuring tech journalist Lynne Peskoe-Yang and activist Michele Lindor.
