The 8.65-inch, 10.4-ounce flashlight, less than half the weight of existing standard law enforcement light, is easier for officers to carry and fits better in their belts. The light is also less likely to be used by officers as a weapon.

Police Chief William Bratton proposed changing department-issued flashlights nine months after a June 23, 2004 incident, in which LAPD Police Officer John Hatfield used a flashlight to subdue car theft suspect Stanley Miller.

The Miller beating was recorded by a news crew in a helicopter. Last November, the City Council approved a $450,000 settlement with Miller, who was struck 11 times with the flashlight following a car and foot chase.

Hatfield was fired from the force in August 2005.   The flashlight also features a three-way switch that allows officers to go from a dimly-lit "patrol mode" to a bright, high-density "tactical mode" in seconds. Visit www.pelicanproducts.com