But it wasn’t just about what they could do. They thought about their journey too. Did the startup vibe with their life? Timing, lifestyle, our company's early stage — all checked. Their skills where matched with what the company needed. The result? A killer list of top talent ready to start recruiting.

The RCMP in May 2010, released new stun gun restrictions, indicating officers are only permitted to use the weapons in cases where a person is causing bodily harm or an officer has "reasonable grounds" to believe a person will "imminently" harm someone.

In some cases, the current was up to 50 per cent stronger than specified. The X26 Tasers were manufactured before 2005 and are one of the most commonly used models.

A stealth startup is a term used to describe a new company that keeps its products, services, and operations under wraps. This approach to business is not just about being secretive; it's a strategic choice aimed at gaining a significant advantage in today's hyper-competitive market. In this high-stakes business world, where innovation is king and speed is the currency, operating in stealth mode allows these companies to develop their ideas away from the spotlight, reducing the risk of competitors stealing or piggybacking on their innovative concepts. It's about nurturing and perfecting their product or service in a controlled environment, free from the prying eyes and premature judgments of the outside world. This strategy isn't just about playing it safe; it's a bold, calculated move to build something extraordinary without the external pressure of market expectations or the constant threat of industry giants swooping in on emerging ideas. Stealth startups often operate on the cutting edge of technology, where each day can bring a breakthrough, and keeping these breakthroughs under lock and key can be crucial for maintaining a competitive edge. This mode of operation requires a unique blend of discretion, agility, and strategic foresight, as these companies work tirelessly towards a future where they can emerge from the shadows, not just as another player in the market, but as a game-changer set to redefine the landscape.

It is a priority for CBC to create products that are accessible to all in Canada including people with visual, hearing, motor and cognitive challenges.

By comparison, electrical outlets in Canada deliver 120 volts of electricity, and the current they carry depends on the appliance that's plugged into them. A 60-watt light bulb, for example, pulls 0.5 amps, while a toaster pulls about five amps.

TASER10

A low-voltage, high-current circuit would be analogous to a storm sewer. A great deal of water passes through but at low pressure.

It's possible for an electrical circuit to have high voltage, but low current. It would be analogous to a dentist's water jet used to remove plaque: high pressure, but low flow.

According to some psychologists, a person with excited delirium acts agitated, violent, sweats profusely and is unusually strong and insensitive to pain. Then, the victim's heart races and eventually stops beating.

"There's no question that there are certainly lots of documented examples in Canada where had we not had the Taser and had to respond with more traditional options, that it could have resulted in a higher level of force," said Gillis. "For example, the firearm: … with a firearm, there are only two outcomes … it's going to be a permanent injury or a loss of life."

Statistics prepared by RCMP officers show that Mounties drew or threatened to draw their Tasers more than 1,400 times in 2007, up from 597 in 2005.

Public concern is growing over the increasing use of Tasers in light of mixed reports on their safety and the lack of details surrounding incidents of Taser deployment by law enforcement agencies. Many of the incident reports released publicly by the RCMP are incomplete, with several key areas left blank.

Choosing to be a stealth mode startup company is a proactive strategy to nurture and protect the intellectual heart and soul of the company. This period of secrecy is also a strategic time for these companies to lay down a strong legal foundation. They use this time to navigate the complex world of patents, trademarks, and copyrights, ensuring that when they finally unveil their innovations, they hold undisputed ownership. It's about creating a fortress around their intellectual property, making sure that when the time comes to step into the spotlight, their ideas remain unchallenged and distinctly their own.

The city of Montreal also held public hearings about police use of stun guns in April 2010. A report is expected later in the year.

Cognitech, Inc. is a foremost developer of real-time image and video forensics processing and analysis software tools, 3D video photogrammetry software.

Founders in stealth mode often network privately with potential investors, advisors, or strategic partners. These meetings typically occur behind closed doors, with strict NDAs in place to maintain confidentiality.

News reports will often quote the voltage delivered by a Taser — up to 50,000 volts. That sounds like a lot of electricity, but it's a misleading way of expressing the power a Taser uses.

Initially, the Mounties speculated that he died from a rare condition called excited delirium. Excited delirium is described as an agitated state in which a person experiences an irregular heartbeat and suddenly dies. It can happen to psychiatric patients and people using drugs such as cocaine. But critics charge that excited delirium is not a valid medical term.

In November 2007, the UN Committee Against Torture released a statement saying "use of Taser X26 weapons, provoking extreme pain, constituted a form of torture, and … in certain cases, it could also cause death."

TASERself defense

"We don't speak often enough about the number of lives that have been saved, the number of people that are up and walking around today that might not have been had it not been for a Taser," says Steve Palmer, executive director of the Canadian Police Research Centre. The CPRC is a partnership among the Canadian Association of Chiefs of Police, the RCMP and the National Research Council of Canada.

In the United States, Tasers are not considered firearms and are legal for civilian use in most states. Some cities, counties and states do restrict — or ban — their use by people who are not police officers. The company will not ship its product outside the United States unless the person placing the order holds a valid import/export permit.

What makes innovation hubs stand out is their focus on fostering creativity and collaboration. They’re not just places to work; they’re communities that offer workshops, networking events, and opportunities to meet industry experts. For stealth mode startups, this can be a huge advantage—letting you stay discreet while still tapping into the knowledge and connections you need to move forward.

Jun 27, 2024 — Job training initiatives programs to help Canadians get the training and skills they need to find and keep jobs.

Taser International said CBC made scientific errors by failing to spark-test the weapons before firing them, a process the company recommends police officers do on a regular basis. But engineers who reviewed the testing protocol for CBC said the tests were based on solid practices.

TASERM26

If a company’s website or public materials offer little more than a vague mission statement or a coming-soon page, yet it boasts significant funding or recognizable backers, it might be in stealth mode. Investors often signal confidence in a startup’s potential, even if the details are under wraps.

RCMP officers must also give a verbal warning "where tactically feasible" before using their stun guns, according to the new policy.

Amnesty International says that between 2001 and August 2008,  334 Americans died after Taser shocks. The stun gun was deemed to have caused or contributed to at least 50 of those deaths, Amnesty says, citing medical examiners and coroners. Most suspects were unarmed, and many were subjected to repeated or prolonged shocks, according to Amnesty.

Then a little more than a month later,  the RCMP said it is pulling all older model M-26 Tasers from service nationwide, after the B.C. government announced that such weapons don't meet the manufacturer's specifications.

In July 2005, for example, a Chicago medical examiner ruled that the death of a man in February 2005 was the result of being shot with a Taser by Chicago police. Media reports said it was the first time a death had been linked directly to a police stun gun, although the medical examiner said the victim also had a lot of methamphetamine in his system.

Coworking spaces are a natural fit for stealth startups. They give you access to everything you need—fast internet, meeting rooms, office furniture, and more—without the commitment or expense of renting a private office. Whether you need a hot desk for occasional use, a dedicated desk for consistency, or even a private office for extra privacy, coworking spaces let you choose what works for your team. And if your needs change, you can switch your setup without getting locked into a long-term lease.

In March 2009, the RCMP watchdog released new figures showing RCMP officers used stun guns 1,106 times in 2008, about 30 per cent less than the previous year. The numbers included incidents when officers drew Tasers from their holsters but didn't fire.

Stealth mode startups are known for their low profile. They avoid media attention, maintain a minimal online presence, and often operate under a temporary name. This anonymity allows them to develop their product or service away from the prying eyes of competitors and the market at large. In this cloak-and-dagger world, these companies are the silent movers, shunning the usual fanfare that startups often seek. It's not about the glitz and glamour of the startup scene; it's about focus, precision, and the element of surprise. Stealth mode startups are like secret labs, where ideas are brewed and strategies are forged in utmost confidentiality. They are masters of discretion, operating in a bubble of secrecy that shields their work from potential copycats and market speculation. This approach extends to their internal operations as well, often with tight-knit teams who are fully aware of the confidential nature of their work and are committed to the company's vision. They are the unsung heroes in the startup ecosystem, quietly pushing the boundaries of innovation and technology, all while preparing for that momentous day when they finally reveal their breakthroughs to the world. In this game of shadows and stealth, these startups are playing a long-term strategy, betting on the fact that their silent groundwork will pay off in a market that's always hungry for the next big thing.

It's possible to suffer a fatal shock from a household electrical socket, at just 120 volts with 15 amps, if enough current passes through the body.

The jolt stuns the target by causing an uncontrollable contraction of the muscle tissue. The target is immobilized and falls to the ground — regardless of pain tolerance or mental focus.

Light capacity cord covers are typically made of flexible plastic with gently dome-shaped surfaces for easy crossing. They are slit underneath for easy cable ...

202466 — Lastly, the SRS only collected aggregate counts, meaning that detailed information about the context of the crimes, such as the ...

Many stealth startups operate in highly competitive or disruptive industries, such as AI, biotech, or blockchain. These sectors often attract significant attention and funding, which startups try to manage by staying under the radar.

The procedures, conducted by U.S.-based lab National Technical Systems, found that 10 per cent of the X26 model Tasers produced more electrical current than the weapon's specifications.

By staying under the radar, stealth startups prevent premature exposure, keeping potential copycats at bay. Operating in stealth mode is like having a secret weapon in your arsenal; it allows startups to quietly develop their concepts, refine their technologies, and perfect their strategies away from the all-seeing eye of the industry. It's not just about avoiding imitation; it's about crafting a market entry that hits just the right note at just the right time. In this silent phase, startups have the flexibility to pivot, experiment, and evolve without the fear of external judgment or the pressure of competitors breathing down their necks. They can test waters, explore uncharted territories, and make bold decisions without broadcasting every move to the world. This strategy allows them to stay agile, adapting to market changes and consumer trends in a way that's almost impossible under the constant scrutiny of the public eye. By the time these startups step into the limelight, they're not just launching a product or service; they're unveiling a fully-formed, market-ready innovation that's poised to make waves. In essence, stealth mode is more than a business tactic; it's a strategic maneuver that gives startups the breathing room to build something truly groundbreaking.

Taser International says more than 16,200 law enforcement agencies in more than 40 countries use its devices. Since early 1998, more than 543,000 Taser brand immobilizers have been sold to law enforcement agencies.

Look for companies using temporary branding, like a holding name, to operate quietly while they refine their product or go-to-market strategy. This tactic allows them to work unnoticed until they’re ready to launch.

In Canada, however, Tasers are a prohibited weapon. Only one company can import them into Canada under a special permit, and they can only sell the devices to law enforcement agencies, said RCMP Cpl. Greg Gillis, who trains police officers in how to use Tasers. Each Taser sale is registered and tracked, much like a handgun, he said.

Raising funds while operating in stealth mode can present a unique set of challenges. When you're under the radar, convincing investors to put their money into something that's shrouded in secrecy is no small feat. Startups in this phase often have to lean heavily on personal networks, tapping into relationships built on trust and mutual respect. These networks can be a goldmine, often leading to angel investors who are accustomed to the high-risk, high-reward nature of startup investing. These individuals are typically more willing to take a chance on an unproven idea, especially if they believe in the team behind it. Moreover, venture capitalists who specialize in early-stage investments can also play a crucial role. They are the ones who can see the potential in the seed of an idea and have the foresight to understand its value, even when it's not fully visible to the outside world. These investors are not just putting their money on the line; they're placing a bet on the vision and capability of the startup team, often based on the strength of their background, experience, and the uniqueness of their idea. However, securing this kind of funding requires more than just a solid business plan or a groundbreaking idea. It demands a level of persuasion and storytelling ability to paint a vivid picture of the startup's potential, all while keeping the crucial details under wraps. The startup must strike the perfect balance between revealing enough to pique interest and maintaining enough secrecy to protect its competitive edge. This delicate dance of disclosure and discretion is a skill that stealth-mode startups must master to secure the funding they need to propel their vision forward.

Tasers are designed to incapacitate a person through up to five centimetres of clothing. Taser International says the electrical pulse is delivered at a high voltage because the electric current has to pass through clothing and air — neither of which is a good conductor of electricity — to make a complete circuit with the target's skin.

Image

In December 2009, Paul Kennedy, head of the Commission for Complaints Against the RCMP, the RCMP watchdog agency, had released a damning report on the conduct of RCMP involved in the Dziekanski's death. Specifically, Kennedy criticized the RCMP's training practices and use of force guidelines, saying the force appears to have dropped historic guidelines directing officers to minimize intervention and use the least amount of force required to get the best results.

Image

Tasers are hand-held weapons that deliver a jolt of electricity through a pair of wires propelled by compressed air from up to 10.6 metres away.

In 2008, the RCMP, which introduced Tasers into its arsenal in 2001, had 2,800 Tasers and 9,100 officers who were trained to use them.

Several highly successful companies we now see as titans in their industries actually started their journeys shrouded in the mystique of being stealth startups, only choosing to step into the limelight when they were fully ready to make a substantial impact. Take SpaceX and LinkedIn, for instance. SpaceX, founded by Elon Musk, maintained a stealth mode in its initial years, focusing intently on developing its groundbreaking rocket technology. This period of secrecy allowed them to innovate away from the public eye and the scrutiny of competitors. When SpaceX finally made its debut, it wasn't just another company in the aerospace sector; it was a trailblazer set to redefine space travel. Similarly, LinkedIn, the brainchild of Reid Hoffman and his team, is another classic example of a stealth startup success story. Before it became the go-to platform for professional networking, LinkedIn was being quietly and strategically pieced together. The team worked behind the scenes to create a platform that could revolutionize how professionals connect and engage. This approach allowed them to meticulously refine their offering, ensuring that once it hit the market, it was a fully realized and functional product that filled a gap in the professional world. Today, LinkedIn stands as an indispensable tool for professionals globally, a testament to the power of a well-executed stealth startup strategy. These examples – SpaceX's reshaping of space exploration and LinkedIn's redefinition of professional networking – are not just success stories; they're powerful narratives that demonstrate the effectiveness and potential of starting in stealth. They show how taking the time to develop and perfect a product away from the prying eyes of competitors and the market can lead to outstanding success, revolutionizing industries and setting new standards. For new entrepreneurs considering the stealth startup path, these stories are more than inspirational; they're proof of the significant impact that can be achieved with the right strategy, timing, and execution.

Operating from home is a go-to option for many entrepreneurs in the early stages. It’s cost-effective, offers complete privacy, and eliminates commuting time. With tools like virtual meeting platforms and project management software, you can build a fully functional setup without renting external space.

Yes, a stealth startup is indeed a real company. The term "stealth startup" refers to a company that operates in stealth mode, choosing to keep its products, services, and operations confidential until it is ready for a public launch or unveiling. During this period, the company actively develops its innovative ideas away from the public eye and competitors, maintaining a low profile to safeguard its intellectual property and gain a competitive advantage.

Timing is absolutely crucial when it comes to transitioning out of stealth mode. The moment must be chosen with precision and care. A startup should ideally step out of the shadows when it's armed with a market-ready product, already tested with a closed group of users. It's about ensuring that all the innovative aspects of the product are legally protected, leaving no room for competitors to encroach upon what you've built. But it's not just about having the product and the legalities in place; it's also about having a robust go-to-market strategy. This means planning how to capitalize on the curiosity and anticipation that's been building up. It's about crafting a narrative around your product and company that resonates with your target audience, creating a marketing buzz that makes your emergence from stealth mode not just noticed but eagerly anticipated. The timing of this transition can make or break the initial impact on the market. If done too early, you risk exposing an underdeveloped product; too late, and you might miss the market window or momentum. Hence, emerging from stealth is a strategic decision that involves weighing multiple factors to ensure that when you do step into the limelight, your startup is ready to shine and captivate the market's attention.

On Oct. 14, 2007, Robert Dziekanski, 40, of Pieszyce, Poland, died at Vancouver International Airport after being shocked five times with a Taser by RCMP officers.

X26TASER

Cost savings are another big win. Coworking memberships are far more affordable than leasing your own space, and they eliminate the hassle of managing utilities, maintenance, and other office logistics. This means you can focus your time and money on building your business instead of worrying about rent and bills.

The report called for an independent provincial body to investigate police actions and warned that public confidence in the RCMP was flagging.

Innovation hubs are spaces designed to help startups grow by connecting them with the right tools, people, and opportunities. These hubs often bring together entrepreneurs, mentors, and investors under one roof, creating a collaborative environment where ideas and businesses can thrive. They’re usually located in vibrant startup ecosystems and offer affordable, flexible workspaces along with access to valuable resources.

The jury determined the company was negligent for failing to warn police that prolonged deployment of the stun gun could increase the risk of cardiac arrest.

Can ataserkill you

Taser International said in August 2009 that it would challenge Braidwood's preliminary findings at the Supreme Court of British Columbia. The case is scheduled to be heard in July 2010.

What would you do in this situation? How well did the guard handled this situation? r/securityguards - What would you do in this situation? How ...

Electricity is the flow of electrons through a wire or other conductor. Voltage and current are two separate ways of measuring electricity.

Jan 17, 2023 — You can disassemble the Quest 2 yourself or find a third-party option, but its design is extremely unfriendly to DIY repair and you could easily break the ...

A coroner concluded Dziekanski died as a result of the stress from both the Taser stuns and the struggle with police as they pinned him to the ground and handcuffed him.

Airport security called the RCMP for help after Dziekanski allegedly was pounding on windows and throwing chairs and computer equipment.

The flexibility doesn’t stop there. Unlike traditional offices, many coworking spaces offer month-to-month memberships. You can scale up or down as your business evolves, which is especially useful when you're operating under tight budgets and unpredictable timelines. Start small with a shared desk, move to a private office when you bring on team members, and shift back if you need to streamline again.

Some stealth startups use misleading or incomplete information to deflect attention. Placeholder company descriptions or ambiguous LinkedIn profiles for team members can point to a company hiding in plain sight.

When were Tasersfirstused by police

Stealth mode startups thrive on secrecy, but they often leave behind subtle clues for those who know where to look. These companies intentionally limit public exposure to keep competitors in the dark, but a closer examination can reveal their presence.

Realistic yellow road sign. · Hazard warning attention sign with exclamation mark symbol · Traffic light in a business and finance district · Blank yellow road ...

Image

The company says there are none and that Taser devices are among the safest use-of-force options available. Critics argue that there hasn't been enough research into the safety of stun guns.

Michael Fey leads Island as co-founder, and achieved a 100% acceptance rate with almost 100 employees in stealth mode. He and his co-founder spent over a year in stealth mode, handpicking the best for the team.

After the release of the first report, the B.C. provincial government said it would act immediately to adopt Braidwood's recommendations.

Taserfor women

Nova Scotia's justice minister also ordered police departments in the province to stop using an older model of Taser in December 2008.

Alberta will be testing all of its police Tasers after pulling 50 that failed to work properly in independent tests, the province announced in April 2009.

Stealth startups often adopt generic or nondescript names to avoid attention. Instead of catchy or industry-relevant names, you might find entities with placeholders or cryptic monikers.

Quebec ordered the mandatory testing of all stun guns manufactured prior to 2005. The government later pulled all of its Taser stun guns off the street for testing after lab results revealed problems with some of the weapons.

Figures compiled by the Canadian Police Research Centre suggest that most mid-size police forces use stun guns between 50 to 60 times a year on average. They were used 51 times in 2006 by police officers in Quebec.

The CBC News report prompted several provinces — including Quebec, Alberta and Nova Scotia — to test their Tasers and pull some or all off the streets after their own tests showed the weapons failed to work properly.

The team behind a stealth startup is often composed of seasoned entrepreneurs or experts with a history of innovation. Their absence from public-facing roles could indicate they’re dedicating their efforts to a stealth project.

However, the home office setup does have its limitations. It might not be ideal for startups that require collaboration or access to specialized facilities. Privacy is another concern if you’re hosting meetings, but many founders successfully balance these challenges with virtual collaboration tools and occasional use of coworking or meeting spaces.

Voltage is the amount of force that is driving a flow of electrons. If you imagine electricity as water flowing through a pipe, the voltage is the water pressure in the pipe.

Tasers are supposed to allow police officers to subdue violent individuals without killing them. A police officer can "take down" a threatening suspect without worrying that a stray bullet might kill or injure an innocent bystander.

Starting a business in stealth mode is all about staying under the radar while making smart decisions to stretch your resources. For most entrepreneurs, every euro counts in the early stages, so finding a cost-effective and flexible workspace is a must.

20191119 — You need to choose an absorbent mat made with materials capable of both withstanding foot traffic and absorbing chemical spills.

For stealth startups, an innovation hub offers the perfect balance of privacy, resources, and community to help you quietly build something big.

For emerging stealth startups, the journey from concept to market leader is fraught with challenges and opportunities. Pitchdrive is always on the lookout for innovative pitches from startups ready to step out of the shadows. Whether you're still in stealth mode or preparing to launch, Pitchdrive offers the resources and support to help make your vision a reality. If you believe your stealth startup is ready for the next big step, consider submitting your pitch.

When was thefirst TASERinvented

Taser International also says that while its device can deliver up to 50,000 volts in an open air arc only, it does not deliver that much voltage to a person's body. The company says its Taser X26 delivers an average of 1,200 volts.

Taser stands for "Thomas A. Swift Electric Rifle." It is named after a series of children's science-fiction novels written in the early 20th century featuring the young genius inventor Tom Swift.

For a startup working in stealth mode, coworking spaces also offer an added layer of anonymity. You’re not tied to a single location, and your business activities can blend seamlessly into the diverse community of professionals around you. It’s a practical, flexible, and budget-friendly option for entrepreneurs who want to stay nimble while laying the groundwork for something big.

Arizona-based Taser International makes virtually all of the stun guns being used today. The technical term for a stun gun is a "conducted energy device" (CED) or "conducted energy weapon" (CEW).

Police stun guns or tasers range can cost around $400 or cost as much as $1,500 for professional models used by law enforcement. On the other hand regular stun ...

Directional arrow up sign add your text. An ideal way to help persons navigate your site. The arrow pointing upwards means progress forward from here.

While the stealth approach has its advantages, it's not without risks. The very nature of working in the shadows means limited market feedback, which can be a double-edged sword. Without customer insights and real-world testing, there's always the danger of developing products that don't quite hit the mark or miss customer expectations. You're making big bets based on assumptions and in-house testing, but without the invaluable input of the end-user. This lack of external validation can lead to misaligned products, potentially resulting in costly pivots or overhauls post-launch. Moreover, prolonged secrecy can create its own set of challenges in terms of marketing and publicity. When you're ready to reveal your product to the world, you're starting from scratch in terms of brand recognition and customer engagement. Generating buzz in a market that's constantly bombarded with new products requires not just a compelling offering but also smart, strategic marketing. The stealth mode can leave startups at a disadvantage here, as they haven't had the opportunity to build a following, engage with potential customers, or test their marketing messages in the real world. This means they need to work doubly hard post-launch to capture the market's attention and make up for lost time. In essence, while operating in stealth mode can offer significant strategic benefits, it also demands a careful balancing act to mitigate the risks associated with limited market feedback and the challenges of building market presence from the ground up.

Keep an eye on intellectual property filings. Even the most secretive startups need to protect their technology. Patent databases can reveal the early stages of innovative development tied to stealth companies.

Many hubs also provide specialized resources like prototyping equipment, design studios, or software development tools, which can be a game-changer for startups in industries like tech or hardware. On top of that, membership often includes support from advisors and mentors, plus access to potential investors. This setup makes it easier to grow your business without taking on the financial and logistical burdens of a traditional office.

Building a team in stealth mode is a unique challenge that demands a razor-sharp focus on confidentiality and discretion. It's not your typical recruitment process, where you broadcast job openings far and wide. Instead, hiring in this environment is often conducted through more covert channels like trusted personal and professional networks. This approach is similar to assembling a special ops team - you're looking for individuals who are not just exceptionally skilled but also deeply trustworthy. These are the kind of people who can fully buy into the startup's vision, understanding the critical nature of secrecy in everything they do. They need to have a sense of adventure and a tolerance for ambiguity, thriving in an environment where not everything is always clear-cut or out in the open. It's about finding those rare gems who can commit to the mission without needing the constant reassurance of a public roadmap. The recruitment process in stealth mode often involves rigorous vetting, as the stakes are incredibly high. Every new hire needs to be someone who can be entrusted with sensitive information, someone who understands the weight of the responsibility they're shouldering. This level of trust-building is crucial because leaks or breaches of confidentiality can be catastrophic for a stealth startup, potentially derailing months or even years of hard work. Hence, startups in stealth mode must navigate the hiring process with a blend of caution, intuition, and an eye for talent that aligns with the startup’s clandestine nature and ambitious goals.

Current, measured in amperes or amps, is the rate of flow of electrons through a wire, similar to the rate of water flow in a pipe, measured in litres per second.

VCs investing in stealth mode startups are another telltale sign. While they may not disclose much, their portfolios or discussions in industry circles can hint at promising but unannounced ventures.

The strategy? Go personal. They picked people they were dying to work with or couldn’t believe they hadn’t yet. Their network was our goldmine. Better than any blind hiring spree.

Tasers work by passing electricity through a pair of wires. Weighted barbed hooks at the ends of the wires are propelled toward the target by compressed air.

The Braidwood Inquiry in its final report, released in June 2010, concluded the RCMP was not justified in using a Taser against Dziekanski.

In June 2008, Taser International lost its first civil suit. The company was ordered to pay more than $5 million in damages after a jury in San Jose, Calif., found that shocks from the company's devices contributed 15 per cent to the Feb. 19, 2005, death of Robert Heston, 40. The jury found that Heston's own actions, including toxic methamphetamine ingestion, were 85 per cent responsible for his death.