Why are batons lethal?

[J.C Denton]

Accidently killed someone because I thought the bobby's batons were non-lethal. It doesn't really make sense that batons are lethal, since their entire purpose is to incapacitate criminicals and controls crowds. Can this be changed?

[joridiculous]

Most weapons are lethal and most all weapons can be modified to be non-lethal.
All Padded weapons and The "Tickler", and the Electric Truncheon (electric baton) are non-lethal.

Its easy to check in the inventory / weapons tab to see what is or is not lethal

[J.C Denton]

Originally posted by joridiculous:

-snip-

Can you modify the Cricket Bat, Pan, Rolling Pin, and Baton? I've found nothing except a wrapped stick.

[joridiculous]

Yes, except the pan.

CricketBatPadded:
The "Sledger" A less lethal version of your British weapon of choice. 
Inflicts moderate non-lethal damage. Can strike multiple opponents

PaddedRollingPin:
"Mother's Little Helper" For softer punishment. Be nice, yet firm. 
Slow but durable, deals moderate non-lethal damage.

LightStick:
"Jack the Nipper" Watch them jump! And then lie down. 
The most powerful non-lethal weapon. 

Thats the modified ones you might/can find around in the game. You can still make them when/if you find the blueprints.