What defines a nonlethal weapon?

A nonlethal weapon is defined as one that is not fundamentally designed to cause death or great bodily harm. This distinction is important because nonlethal weapons are intended to incapacitate or control a person without causing permanent injury or loss of life. Examples include tasers, rubber bullets, and bean bag rounds, which are manufactured to provide law enforcement with options that reduce the likelihood of fatal outcomes while still allowing them to maintain control over a situation.

The focus on the design intent of these weapons is crucial; nonlethal does not mean without risk, but rather that the primary objective is to minimize lethality. This definition also helps to clarify their appropriate use in various law enforcement contexts, making them suitable alternatives to lethal force when possible and necessary for maintaining safety and order.