The San Bernardino County, California, Sheriff’s Department has begun using Chinese finger traps as a means of restraining DUI suspects taken into custody. The finger traps, made from flexible tubing, are fitted on the suspect’s index fingers, effectively connecting the two hands behind the back. Sheriff deputies have successfully used the traps in place of handcuffs for over two years, with no escapes recorded.

“You should see these drunk bastards try to pull out of them,” said Patrol Sgt. Anthony Pagano, with a laugh. “They’re too drunk or stupid - or both - to figure out how to release the restraint. It just cinches even tighter on their fingers until the circulation gets cut off and they go numb. That’s some funny shit right there!”

The department made the switch in order to save money after officers kept losing the keys to expensive $25 handcuffs. The finger traps cost only 75 cents from area novelty stores, and are just as effective as cuffs. And unlike plastic cable ties, the traps are reusable, making them a more green option for law enforcement.

“We have lots of fun with these at our department Christmas parties too,” added Pagano. “It’s much safer than playing Taser-tag.”