Date of Award
Summer 8-5-2026
Document Type
Thesis
Degree Name
Master of Science (MS)
Department/Program
Forensic Science
Language
English
First Advisor or Mentor
Peter Diaczuk
Second Reader
Jack Hietpas
Third Advisor
Andrew J. Winter
Abstract
Less-lethal ammunition is widely used by law enforcement as an alternative to lethal force during crowd control, on-street confrontations, and other situations requiring force. Although these projectiles are intended to reduce risk of fatal injury, serious injuries and fatalities have been reported, highlighting the need to better understand the factors that influence their impact behavior. This study evaluated the impact dynamics of four types of 12-gauge less-lethal ammunition, including rubber buckshot, single rubber ball, double rubber ball, and Byrna kinetic projectile, using kinetic energy calculations derived from projectile mass and velocity measurements. In addition, Attenuated Total Reflectance Fourier Transform Infrared (ATR-FTIR) spectroscopy was used to characterize the chemical composition of the projectiles. Together, these analyses provide a forensic assessment of the ballistic performance and material properties of commercially available less lethal ammunition.
Recommended Citation
Bermejo, Steven, "Assessing the Impact Dynamics of Less Lethal Ammunition" (2026). CUNY Academic Works.
https://academicworks.cuny.edu/jj_etds/406
Included in
Forensic Chemistry Commons, Law Enforcement and Corrections Commons, Wounds and Injuries Commons
