Can Screeners With Light Sabers Be Far Behind?

While it's probably safe to assume few in the Department of Homeland Security will ever attain "Jedi" status... soon some of DHS's finest will be equipped with honest-to-goodness light sabers.

The Detroit Free-Press reports the Department of Homeland Security will soon arm federal agents -- including air marshals, border patrol agents, and customs officials -- with a non-lethal weapon that emits a blinding strobe light to subdue criminals.

"The light could be used to make a bad guy turn away or shut his eyes, giving authorities enough time to tackle the suspect and apply the cuffs, all while sparing the lives of passersby, hostages or airline passengers," according to a description from the Homeland Security Department's science and technology division.

While people need not fear the potential loss of limbs, Darth Vader-style... some human rights advocates still fear the flashlight-sized devices will turn agents to the Dark Side, especially along the US/Mexico border.

"I would imagine that Mexico wouldn't be particularly happy with us using a device that would be more appropriate for criminals, not just for people trying to get across the border who are looking for better opportunities," said American Immigration Lawyers Association president Deborah Notkin.

DHS hopes to have the LED Incapacitators in the hands of agents by 2010. Armed with $1 million in test funding from Homeland Security, the devices are now under development by Intelligent Optical Systems, and will be tested at Pennsylvania State University this fall (tip to students -- better hand in those theses on time.)

"It's like someone shooting off a flashbulb in your face every few seconds," said Bob Lieberman, president of Intelligent Optical. "Because of the wavelengths and frequencies we use, there are psychophysical effects -- a real disorientation. The reaction can range through vertigo to nausea."

The device doesn't use lasers, or permanently blind people, Lieberman helpfully added.

FMI: www.intopsys.com/