The U.K. is really making progress in restoring their right to defend themselves. The latest suggestion is that householders invest in a robotic beach ball that will supposedly chase burglars away. Are you willing to bet your life on this?

A large black ball, originally designed by Swedish scientists for use on Mars, could be the latest weapon in the war against burglars.

The device, developed at the University of Uppsala, acts as a high-tech security guard capable of detecting an intruder thanks to either radar or infra-red sensors. Once alerted, it can summon help, sound an alarm or pursue the intruders, taking pictures.

It is capable of travelling at 20mph, somewhat faster than a human being. Even worse for intruders, the robot ball can still give chase over mud, snow and water. [...]

The prototype, just under 2ft in diameter, weighs about 10lb. "It is extremely light, which is why it moves so fast," Mr Hulth said.

These things actually sound pretty neat. I bet thieves will fetch quite a price for them on the black market.

(Hat tip to Geek)