What to know about 'less-lethal' weapons used by US police
As we've been reporting, law enforcement officers in LA have been using what are often referred to as "less-lethal" weapons as a means to disperse protesters.
The term often refers to rounds like rubber bullets, sponge bullets and tear gas.
Here's a look at what these terms mean:
- Rubber bullets: These are projectile rounds fired from guns and feature a rubber coating around a metal core. Though described as "less-lethal", rubber bullets can cause significant injuries and even death
- Sponge bullets: Also known as sponge grenades, these projectiles are about 40mm (1.5 in) long and are made of foam. Like rubber bullets, these can cause serious injuries
- Tear gas: Often deployed by US law enforcement during unrest, tear gas is a chemical compound that causes irritation to the eyes, throat and lungs. Its effects are typically felt immediately
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