Pyramid Exercise: Radar Guns Raise Safety Questions

KALAMAZOO, Mich -- A ban was issued yesterday by the Connecticut State Police in Meriden, Conn. on hand-held radar guns after claims filed by three police officers stating they developed cancer from the guns surfaced.

"The whole situation is under review," said Adam Berluti, a state police spokesman.  "The feeling here is to err on the side of caution until more is known about the issue."  While the ban was ordered as a precaution, the concern that troopers could develop cancer was enough to prompt the move, the first in its kind by a state police agency.

Long-term exposure to the radiation waves emitted by the guns could be the cause. The ban effects 70 guns, which are being withdrawn from service. Troopers will still use radar units with transmitters mounted on their cruisers. 

Researchers are currently studying the link between cancer and the devices.  Until more is known, the Connecticut State Police will chose to be more safe than sorry.