A tragic incident unfolded in Times Square when a woman armed with kitchen knives attacked two individuals, resulting in one death. NYPD officers attempted to use Tasers on the suspect, Pamela Cisneros, but they were ineffective. Ultimately, officers shot Cisneros, who later died at Bellevue Hospital.
Details of the Incident
The attack occurred last Monday and involved a 32-year-old woman who died and a 68-year-old man who was injured. New York City Police Commissioner Jessica Tisch noted that despite multiple Taser deployments, Cisneros continued to threaten officers, forcing them to resort to firearms.
Understanding Taser Functionality
Questions have arisen about why Tasers sometimes fail. A Taser works by firing two small probes connected by wires, delivering electrical pulses that cause involuntary muscle contractions. For optimal effectiveness, the probes should ideally make contact about 12 inches apart on large muscle masses like the back or thighs.
Challenges with Taser Deployment
Steve Keller, a retired police sergeant, explained that clothing, probe placement, substance abuse, and connectivity can all impact Taser effectiveness. Obesity may also interfere with the probes’ ability to connect adequately, as body fat can hinder electrical conduction. The NYPD officers’ inability to neutralize Cisneros with a Taser has raised broader concerns about these issues.
Factors Influencing Taser Effectiveness
Dr. Marc Siegel, Fox News senior medical analyst, agreed that Tasers work better on muscle than fat, as muscle conducts electricity more efficiently. In obese individuals, finding a muscle area that conducts electricity effectively can be challenging.
Mental Health Considerations
Beyond physical factors, mental health can affect how an individual responds to a Taser. Commissioner Tisch confirmed that Cisneros had a history of documented mental health issues with the NYPD.
As this case demonstrates, the interplay of body composition and mental health can complicate non-lethal law enforcement measures.