According to corporate media sources, the NYPD plans to use a sound amplification device developed by the military at the RNC protests. Called the Long Range Acoustic Device, this super-loudspeaker is capable of blasting warnings, orders or anything else at an ear-splitting 150 decibels. For sake of comparison, a rock concert is about 110 decibels; 130 decibels will cause physical pain. The RNC will mark the first time this device has been used by a non-military entity, the NYPD has purchased two of them and mounted them on Humvees. The NYPD claims they will only be using the devices "to communicate in large crowds," and that they will not be using the devices as a weapon. Many activists will, of course, take these assurances with more than a grain of salt. Considering that police routinely use devices like helicopters and motorcycles to drown protests in engine noise, it is entirely plausible to assume that this long range acoustic device will be used for the purpose it was designed for, as a weapon to drown out all other sound and cause physical and mental discomfort.

Previous Media Mouse RNC Updates:

• FBI and NYPD Engaging in Widespread Surveillance and Intimidation of Protestors
• Mayor Bloomberg calls freedom of speech a "privilege"
• NY City Offers Retail Discounts to "Peaceful Protesters"
• 258-Mile March from DNC en Route to the RNC
• "The People" Get Ready to Take on Democrat and Republican Conventions