Defensive Tactics Manual 2011 - WhatDoTheyKnow

CONFLICT MANAGEMENT

Defensive Tactics Manual 2011

Defensive Tactics Training

© Northamptonshire Police (Confl ict Management Unit) 2011

All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced, modifi ed, amended, stored in a retrieval system, or transmitted in any form or by any means without the prior written permission of the publisher.

You will notice that the words ‘he’ and ‘his’ are used throughout, this is because of the style in which the legislation is written. ‘He’ should be taken to include reference to ‘she’ and it is not intended to offend or exclude anyone.

This manual has been written in conjunction with the NPIA Personal Safety Program Manual (2007), the HMIC Safety Matters and NPIA Guidance on Personal Safety Training (2009)

A-1DEFENSIVE TACTICS TRAINING2011 Manual

ContentsDefensive Tactics Manual 2011Tactical Communications

Contents ............................................................................................... 1-1Introduction ........................................................................................... 1-2Goals of tactical communication ................................................................ 1-3Use of force ........................................................................................... 1-4Confl ict Management Model ...................................................................... 1-5

Information and Intelligence ............................................................. 1-5Threat Assessment .......................................................................... 1-6Powers and Policies ......................................................................... 1-6Tactical Options .............................................................................. 1-8Actions .......................................................................................... 1-9Five occasions when tactical communications may fail ........................ 1-9SAFER ........................................................................................... 1-9

Reading clues to potentially violent behaviour ............................................. 1-10Components of communication ......................................................... 1-10Identifi cation of danger signs ............................................................ 1-11Active listening ............................................................................... 1-12

Diagnosing a verbal encounter.................................................................. 1-13Five tools for generating voluntary compliance ............................................ 1-14

LEAPS ........................................................................................... 1-14Dealing with totally resistant subjects ........................................................ 1-15Proxemics .............................................................................................. 1-16Conclusion ............................................................................................. 1-17

Unarmed Defensive TacticsContents ............................................................................................... 2-1Introduction ........................................................................................... 2-3Confl ict Management Model ...................................................................... 2-4

Information and Intelligence ............................................................. 2-4Threat Assessment .......................................................................... 2-5Powers and Policies ......................................................................... 2-5Article 2......................................................................................... 2-7Tactical Options .............................................................................. 2-7Actions .......................................................................................... 2-8

Approach and position ............................................................................. 2-9Proxemics .............................................................................................. 2-10Proper stance ......................................................................................... 2-11Defensive stance .................................................................................... 2-11Movement ............................................................................................. 2-12

Forwards/backwards ........................................................................ 2-12Lateral movement - strong side/weak side ......................................... 2-13

Tactical communications .......................................................................... 2-14Stress reactions for offi cer survival ............................................................ 2-15Practical techniques ................................................................................ 2-15Overcoming low level resistance ............................................................... 2-16

Base of the ear ............................................................................... 2-17Middle ear ...................................................................................... 2-17Rear of the collar bone .................................................................... 2-18

Breakaway techniques ............................................................................ 2-19The pinch....................................................................................... 2-19The arm circle ................................................................................ 2-19The rib rub ..................................................................................... 2-20SPEAR ........................................................................................... 2-21Less than 90 degrees drill ................................................................ 2-22Outside 90 degree drill .................................................................... 2-23SPEAR technique ........................................................................... 2-243 step bear hug drill ........................................................................ 2-24Thumb pop immediate action drill ..................................................... 2-26

A-2 DEFENSIVE TACTICS TRAINING2011 Manual

The seated 3 step bear hug drill ........................................................ 2-27Bicep push immediate action drill ...................................................... 2-29

Striking techniques ................................................................................. 2-31Trauma chart – front and rear view ................................................. 2-32Striking techniques ......................................................................... 2-33

Practical application ................................................................................ 2-34Strikes using the leg ........................................................................ 2-34The knee strike ............................................................................... 2-34The sweeping kick ........................................................................... 2-35Strikes using the arms ..................................................................... 2-36Palm heel strike .............................................................................. 2-36Bottom fi st strike ............................................................................ 2-38Forearm strike ................................................................................ 2-39Striking techniques – overall considerations ........................................ 2-39

Control techniques .................................................................................. 2-40Transport wristlock .......................................................................... 2-41Ground pin ..................................................................................... 2-42The leg pin ..................................................................................... 2-43Directing to prone ........................................................................... 2-44The straight arm bar ....................................................................... 2-44The pull down ................................................................................. 2-45Control techniques – overall considerations ........................................ 2-46

Alcohol and drugs ................................................................................... 2-46Ground fi ghting ...................................................................................... 2-46

Offi cer grounded/subject grounded ................................................... 2-47Medical conditions................................................................................... 2-48

Positional Asphyxia ......................................................................... 2-48Acute Behavioural Disorder (ABD) ..................................................... 2-49

Conclusion ............................................................................................. 2-51PAVA

Contents ............................................................................................... 3-1Introduction ........................................................................................... 3-2Technical data – Nonivamide .................................................................... 3-2

Delivery system .............................................................................. 3-2Replacement .................................................................................. 3-2

Physiological effects of Nonivamide ........................................................... 3-3Failure of Nonivamide to achieve desired effect ........................................... 3-4General guidelines for the use of incapacitants ............................................ 3-4

Use on persons suffering mental health problems ................................ 3-5Training issues ................................................................................ 3-5Aftercare ....................................................................................... 3-6When to use – use of force context ................................................... 3-7

Confl ict Management Model ...................................................................... 3-8Information and Intelligence ............................................................. 3-8Threat Assessment .......................................................................... 3-9Powers and Policies ......................................................................... 3-9Article 2......................................................................................... 3-11Tactical Options .............................................................................. 3-11Actions .......................................................................................... 3-12

Policy use of PAVA .................................................................................. 3-12Use of force reporting .............................................................................. 3-12Nonivamide – facts ................................................................................. 3-13Scoop and shoot holder ........................................................................... 3-14Proper grip ............................................................................................ 3-14Defensive position .................................................................................. 3-15Reactionary gap ..................................................................................... 3-15Drawing techniques................................................................................. 3-16

Strong side draw ............................................................................ 3-16Weak side draw .............................................................................. 3-17

Spraying techniques ................................................................................ 3-18


Single aggressor ............................................................................. 3-18Multiple aggressors ......................................................................... 3-18Dynamic attack .............................................................................. 3-19One offi cer – subject grounded ......................................................... 3-20One offi cer – subject and offi cer standing ........................................... 3-20One offi cer - offi cer grounded/offender standing ................................. 3-21Two offi cers – subject grounded ........................................................ 3-22Two offi cers – subject standing ......................................................... 3-23

BatonContents ............................................................................................... 4-1Introduction ........................................................................................... 4-2Use of force - objective ............................................................................ 4-2

Use of auto lock baton - objective ..................................................... 4-2Auto lock baton – use of force context ............................................... 4-2


Tactical communications .......................................................................... 4-8Monadnock Auto lock baton ...................................................................... 4-9

Auto lock batons ............................................................................. 4-9Target areas - primary (green) ................................................................. 4-10Target areas - secondary (yellow) ............................................................. 4-11Target areas - fi nal (red) .......................................................................... 4-12Carrying the auto lock baton .................................................................... 4-13

Approach and tactical positioning ...................................................... 4-13Proxemics .............................................................................................. 4-14Stance .................................................................................................. 4-14

Non violent posture ......................................................................... 4-14Defensive stance ............................................................................ 4-14

Drawing the baton .................................................................................. 4-15Defensive position closed ................................................................. 4-15High profi le position ........................................................................ 4-15Defensive position low profi le ........................................................... 4-16Two handed carry ........................................................................... 4-16

Counterstrikes ........................................................................................ 4-17Forward circular strike ..................................................................... 4-17Reverse circular strike ..................................................................... 4-18Power strike ................................................................................... 4-19Front jab (two handed carry position) ................................................ 4-20Rear jab (two handed carry position) ................................................. 4-20Rib rub .......................................................................................... 4-21Rake ............................................................................................. 4-21

Baton retention ...................................................................................... 4-22Circular retention technique ............................................................. 4-22

Shin restraint ......................................................................................... 4-23Technique considerations ......................................................................... 4-25Follow up procedures .............................................................................. 4-25

Handcuffi ngContents ............................................................................................... 5-1Introduction ........................................................................................... 5-2Policy .................................................................................................... 5-3

Rules for handcuffi ng ....................................................................... 5-4Nomenclature ........................................................................................ 5-5Proper grip ............................................................................................ 5-6Defi nition of terms .................................................................................. 5-7

Loading of handcuffs ....................................................................... 5-7


Strong hand/strong side .................................................................. 5-7Tactical positioning .................................................................................. 5-8Communication skills............................................................................... 5-9Application ............................................................................................. 5-10

Application site ............................................................................... 5-10Application technique .............................................................................. 5-11Hand position following handcuffi ng .......................................................... 5-12Preparation ............................................................................................ 5-12Techniques............................................................................................. 5-13

Compliant handcuffi ng to the front .................................................... 5-13Compliant handcuffi ng to the front – safe removal ............................... 5-14Compliant handcuffi ng to the rear ..................................................... 5-16Safe search method – standing technique .......................................... 5-18Compliant handcuffi ng to the rear – safe removal ................................ 5-20Prone handcuffi ng ........................................................................... 5-21Prone search .................................................................................. 5-22Standing the subject up ................................................................... 5-24Non-compliant handcuffi ng in the ground pin position ......................... 5-26Weak side application ...................................................................... 5-26Strong side application .................................................................... 5-29

Vehicle tactic .......................................................................................... 5-31Cell exit technique ................................................................................. 5-33Handcuffi ng two subjects ......................................................................... 5-37

Emergency Response BeltsContents ............................................................................................... 6-1Introduction ........................................................................................... 6-2Confl ict Management Model ...................................................................... 6-4


History and purpose ................................................................................ 6-9Nomenclature ........................................................................................ 6-9

Care and Washing of the Emergency Response Belt® .......................... 6-10Nomenclature of the ERB ........................................................................ 6-10

Parts indicated - viewed from the front .............................................. 6-10Parts indicated - viewed from the rear ............................................... 6-11

Advantages given by the ERB ................................................................... 6-11Loading and folding the ERB ..................................................................... 6-12

Loading the Velcro Compression Strap ............................................... 6-12Folding the ERB .............................................................................. 6-13

Loading the ERB into the carrier/holster ..................................................... 6-14ERB restraint techniques .......................................................................... 6-15

Full body wrap - chest ..................................................................... 6-15Full body wrap - legs ...................................................................... 6-18Full body wrap – midsection ............................................................. 6-20Important ...................................................................................... 6-21Lifting the prisoner/subject .............................................................. 6-22Carrying the prisoner/subject ........................................................... 6-25Important ...................................................................................... 6-26Placing the subject on the ground ..................................................... 6-26Standing procedure. ........................................................................ 6-27Walking with the subject .................................................................. 6-28Placement into transport .................................................................. 6-28Removal from transport ................................................................... 6-32Transportation process – Police Support Unit vehicle placement ............. 6-33Removal procedure ......................................................................... 6-34Safe removal of the ERB - standing ................................................... 6-36


Safe removal of the ERB - prone ....................................................... 6-38Back arm restraint .......................................................................... 6-40The use of the ERB to prevent biting and spitting ................................ 6-41

ERB restraint techniques - care of the subject ........................................... 6-42General ......................................................................................... 6-42Medical Issues ................................................................................ 6-42

Edged Weapon AwarenessContents ............................................................................................... 7-1Introduction ........................................................................................... 7-2Types of edged weapons .......................................................................... 7-4Survival mindset ..................................................................................... 7-5Tactical considerations ............................................................................. 7-5

Danger cues ................................................................................... 7-5Proxemics and the reactionary gap ............................................................ 7-6Response options .................................................................................... 7-7Empty hand knife defence skills ................................................................ 7-9Principles of knife fi ghting skills ................................................................ 7-10

Types of cuts .................................................................................. 7-11Stances ......................................................................................... 7-11Lines of attack ................................................................................ 7-12

Tactical knife defence ............................................................................. 7-12Practical techniques......................................................................... 7-12


Types of knife grip .................................................................................. 7-18Knife defence principles ................................................................... 7-18Target areas ................................................................................... 7-19

Defensive stance .................................................................................... 7-20Movement ...................................................................................... 7-20Pat - Wrap - Attack ......................................................................... 7-20Pat against a straight thrust ............................................................. 7-21Pat against a diagonal line of attack .................................................. 7-21Pat against lateral slashes ................................................................ 7-22Wrap – control the delivery system ................................................... 7-22Attack ........................................................................................... 7-22Attack 1 – thigh/groin area .............................................................. 7-23Attack 2 – rib area .......................................................................... 7-24 Attack 3 – throat/facial area ............................................................. 7-24Attack 4 - head strikes .................................................................... 7-25

Police Dogs (Use of Force)Contents ............................................................................................... 8-1Introduction ........................................................................................... 8-2Use of force and confl ict management ....................................................... 8-3Confl ict Management Model ...................................................................... 8-4

Information and Intelligence ............................................................. 8-4Threat Assessment .......................................................................... 8-4Powers and Policies ......................................................................... 8-5Tactical Options .............................................................................. 8-7Actions .......................................................................................... 8-7

Use of force reporting .............................................................................. 8-8Deployments considered non-use of force .......................................... 8-9Use of force deployments ................................................................. 8-9Chase and Detain ............................................................................ 8-10Crowd control – public order ............................................................. 8-10Spontaneous disorder ..................................................................... 8-10


Sporting events and other pre-planned operations ............................... 8-10Ground commander ........................................................................ 8-11Briefi ngs ........................................................................................ 8-12

Control of the police dog .......................................................................... 8-12Warnings to subjects ............................................................................... 8-13Deployment in fi rearms incidents .............................................................. 8-13Post incident action ................................................................................. 8-13

Mental Health AwarenessContents ............................................................................................... 9-1Introduction ........................................................................................... 9-2Mental health awareness quiz ................................................................... 9-3Mental health awareness quiz - answers .................................................... 9-4Some mental health statistics ................................................................... 9-5Defi nitions ............................................................................................. 9-6

Learning disability ........................................................................... 9-6Mental health problems ................................................................... 9-6Dementia/Alzheimer’s disease .......................................................... 9-6Neurotic illnesses (severe stress or anxiety) ....................................... 9-6Psychoses ...................................................................................... 9-6Possible aggressive behaviour of the subject ....................................... 9-8

Your response ........................................................................................ 9-9Conclusion ............................................................................................. 9-10

Northamptonshire Police

Confl ict Management UnitLearning & Development DepartmentForce HeadquartersWootton HallWootton ParkNorthamptonNN4 0JQ

www.northants.police.uk

03000 111 222

CONFLICT MANAGEMENT


Tactical Communications

1-1DEFENSIVE TACTICS TRAININGTactical Communications

ContentsIntroduction ........................................................................................... 1-2Goals of tactical communication ................................................................ 1-3Use of force ........................................................................................... 1-4Confl ict Management Model ...................................................................... 1-5

Information and Intelligence ............................................................. 1-5Threat Assessment .......................................................................... 1-6Powers and Policies ......................................................................... 1-6Tactical Options .............................................................................. 1-8Actions .......................................................................................... 1-9Five occasions when tactical communications may fail ........................ 1-9SAFER ........................................................................................... 1-9

Reading clues to potentially violent behaviour ............................................. 1-10Components of communication ......................................................... 1-10Identifi cation of danger signs ............................................................ 1-11Active listening ............................................................................... 1-12

Diagnosing a verbal encounter.................................................................. 1-13Five tools for generating voluntary compliance ............................................ 1-14

LEAPS ........................................................................................... 1-14Dealing with totally resistant subjects ........................................................ 1-15Proxemics .............................................................................................. 1-16Conclusion ............................................................................................. 1-17

1-2 DEFENSIVE TACTICS TRAININGTactical Communications

IntroductionIn the past offi cer training in use of force and personal safety skills has concentrated physical skills and tactics, with the subject of tactical communications skills receiving either low priority or being omitted from training completely.

Research internationally shows that the vast majority (over 95%) of arrests are made without the need to resort to physical force. Offi cers then are already using their communications skills to great effect, without training. A structured system of training offi cers in tactical communications may well yield even better results.

Tactical communications should not be viewed as an easy or soft option. It may take more time, effort and skill but it remains more desirable than engaging in physical confl ict, which brings with it the risk of offi cer and offender injury as well as the spectre of complaints and civil or criminal litigation.

In his book “Verbal Judo” George THOMPSON says “most of us are verbal disasters waiting to happen. No-one has ever taught us how to communicate, especially under pressure - when it’s most important”.

Communications consist of two sets of signals :

• verbal• non-verbal

We all give and receive such messages but how much time do we devote to understanding this combination?

With training it is possible to give offi cers skills which enable them to both give the correct message and interpret another’s message correctly.

By devoting time to training offi cers in tactical communications skills it is possible to provide them with effective options that will limit the escalation of force.

An additional benefi t is that relating to witness perception. Police work is a spectator sport and we are under more intense scrutiny today than at any other period in our history. If we do not learn to deal with that reality appropriately we will fail to enhance our image and most importantly offi cer safety.

The onus is on the Police Service to improve through training.


Goals of tactical communicationThe proper use of communications skills enables offi cers to view confl ict creatively and use specifi c strategies and tactics to fi nd peaceful resolutions, where possible.

Training is therefore directed at achieving two specifi c goals :

Goal 1 - enhanced offi cer safety

Nothing within this training will be contrary to the principle of offi cer safety. It is fully recognised that that there will be those occasions where communications skills alone will not suffi ce and offi cers will have to resort to use of force. This is dealt with in more detail in the “use of force” section of this document.

Due to the inherent dangers involved in policing, offi cer safety must be the top priority in this area of police training.

Goal 2 - enhanced professionalism

International research shows that 33% of complaints related to offi cer attitude in a verbal encounter. An additional 31% related to an escalation of force. Over 60% of complaints, therefore, involved either attitude or use of force.

By offering training it may be possible to reduce:

• complaints• liability in the event of litigation• personal stress

In this search for professionalism we must show respect for multi-cultural issues, for failure to do so will at least impede effective communications.

Professionalism includes having respect, showing empathy, gaining respect and having credibility.

We must remain aware that this professionalism and credibility can be tainted easily by just one offi cer, or a group of offi cers, seen to be acting incorrectly.


Use of forceCriteria for use of force

1. Justifi cation (Why the offi cer did what they did)

The level of force used must be reasonable and proportionate for the resistance encountered in the confrontation.

The use of non-lethal force is still guided by a test of reasonableness rather than “the use of force which is no more than absolutely necessary”. The Convention, however raises related issues in respect to responses being proportionate - is the use of force – (and level used) proportionate to the wrong that it seeks to avoid or the harm it seeks to prevent? Is the use of force chosen the least intrusive or damaging practicable option?

Careful consideration must be given to striking a fair balance between the rights of the suspect/s or subjects and the interests of the community at large. If force is not used in a proportionate way then this may amount to a breach of Article 8 of the European Convention on Human Rights. This Article guarantees not only the right to privacy, but also the right to physical integrity – the right not to be hurt in an arbitrary or unjustifi able way.

2. Preclusion (Why the offi cer did not take other actions)

Other force options must have either been attempted and failed or be considered by the offi cer to be inappropriate or disproportionate under the circumstances.

To assist the offi cer in determining what use of force option may be reasonable, the Confl ict Management Model sets out information/intelligence, threat assessment, powers and policy, tactical options and actions.


Confl ict Management ModelThe Confl ict Management Model which follows is intended as guidance for Police Offi cers when assessing a situation with regard to use of force. There are no absolutes in this highly volatile arena and each situation must be assessed according to the offi cer’s perceptions, training and experience. To promote professionalism and understanding of use of force it is necessary to have a standardised use of force model to which offi cers can refer.

It is possible to lay the foundation for an understandable, fl exible, usable police which will offer not only guidance, but also support to Police Offi cers.

This will allow offi cers not only to take the correct action in the operational arena but will also enable them to effectively indicate those actions and provide sound justifi cation for having done so.

The Confl ict Management Model is divided into fi ve components:

• Information/intelligence• Threat assessment• Power and policies• Tactical options• Actions

Information & Intelligence

Powers & Policies Tactical Options

Threat Assessment Actions

ConstantCycle

Conflict Management Model

Information and Intelligence

Offi cers start to formulate response taking into consideration

• Information and intelligence contained on intelligence systems such as PNC or FIS• The offi cer’s previous knowledge experience of the offender(s)• Other offi cers’ previous knowledge or experience of the offender(s)


Threat Assessment

Offi cers start to formulate a dynamic threat assessment based on

• Information/intelligence and• The profi led offender behaviour• Other impact factors

Profi led Offender Behaviour

Compliance

• Offender offers no resistance• Complies with offi cer requests/demands

Verbal resistance and gestures

• Offender refuses verbally to comply• Exhibits body language indicating non-compliance

Passive resistance

• Offender sits/stands still - will not move - as with some protesters

Active resistance

• Offender pulls away from the offi cer• No deliberate attempt to strike the offi cer.

Aggressive/Assaultive resistance

• Offender fi ghts the offi cer - punching/kicking/wrestling/biting etc.

Serious or Aggravated resistance

• Any action, which may cause serious bodily harm or death - includes production of a weapon by the offender or striking of a vulnerable area of the body.

The offi cer’s choice of use of force is based on their perceptions, training and experience.

Factors in addition to offender behaviour which may infl uence the offi cer’s response, include impact factors, including (but not limited to):

Subject Impact Factors

Alcohol, drugs, size, strength, skill levels, injury, exhaustion and mental health issues

Object Impact Factors

Proximity of weapons, vehicles, other items in the vicinity of the incident.

Environmental Impact Factors

Any other danger directly associated with the incident

Powers and Policies

Use of force policy

The objective of Police use of force is to preserve the safety of offi cers, innocent persons and the


subject (where practicable) by establishing control.

When control is established and maintained the offi cer’s use of force ceases for it then becomes punishment, which is neither reasonable nor lawful.

Powers

In law the use of force by Police Offi cers is governed by :

Common Law - to protect self and others.

“If you have an honestly held belief that you or another are in imminent danger, you may use such force as is reasonable and necessary to avert that danger.”

Section 3 Criminal Law Act 1967 - to effect arrest or prevent crime.

“Any person may use such force as is reasonable in the circumstances in the prevention of crime, or in effecting or assisting in the lawful arrest of offenders or suspected offenders or of persons unlawfully at large.”

Section 117 PACE - to exercise powers granted by that act.

“Where any provision of this Act confers a power on a constable; and does not provide that the power may only be exercised with the consent of the person, other than a police offi cer, the offi cer may use reasonable force, if necessary, in the exercise of the power.”

Sec 136 Mental Health Act 1983.

“If a constable fi nds a person in a public place to which the public have access a person who appears to be suffering from a mental disorder and who appears to be in immediate need of care and control, the constable my if he/she thinks it necessary:(a) in the interests of that person; or(b) for the protection of other persons;remove that person, to a place of safety (which may be a police station)”

The use of force must be justifi ed and reasonable otherwise it constitutes and assault and is therefore unlawful. It is not possible to give instructions to cover every eventuality but remember, there must be some objective basis for the decision.

The statutes (and common law) governing use of force must now be read in conjunction with the Human Rights Act.

The use of non-lethal force is still guided by a test of reasonableness rather than “the use of force which is no more than absolutely necessary”. The Convention however raises related issues in respect of proportionality. Is the force used proportionate to the wrong that it seeks to avoid or the harm it seeks to prevent? Is the use of force chosen the least intrusive or damaging practicable option? Careful consideration must be given to striking a fair balance between the rights of the suspect/s, subjects or offenders and the interests and rights of the community at large.

A lawful interference with the individual’s rights human rights must be necessary and this depends upon the measure taken being proportionate to the legitimate aim pursued in respect of qualifi ed rights like Article 8. For example the lawful arrest or detention of a suspect pursues the legitimate aim of the prevention and detection of crime.

If force is not used in this proportionate way then this may amount to a breach of Article 8 of the European convention on Human Rights. This Article guarantees not only the right to privacy, but also the right to physical integrity – the right not to be hurt in an arbitrary or unjustifi able way.


Article 2

Article 2 of the Human Rights Act relates directly to the right to life. Whilst the use of lethal force may contravene this Article the Article itself provides that deprivation of life shall not be regarded as infl icted in contravention of this article when it results from the use of force, which is no more than absolutely necessary:

(a) in defence of any person from unlawful violence(b) in order to effect a lawful arrest or to prevent escape from lawful custody(c) in action lawfully taken for the purpose of quelling a riot or insurrection.

These circumstances accord to a large degree with the provisions of Sec. 3 Criminal Law Act and Common Law in relation to use of force. It is to be emphasised in respect of lethal outcomes from use of force the standard changes to that of absolutely necessity.

This absolute necessity places the burden on offi cers to prove that such use of force was strictly proportionate to the achievement of the permitted purposes as shown at (a) to (c) above.

It is therefore imperative that use of force reporting and statement making is undertaken in line with the training on such issues, relating the response directly to offender conduct and impact factors, as per the confl ict resolution model, indicating all the relevant circumstances that led to the use of lethal force. Regard must be paid to the aim pursued; the dangers to life and limb inherent in the situation and the degree of risk that the force employed might result in the loss of life.

Tactical Options

Having taken into consideration the information, intelligence, powers and policies, the offi cers can now establish their proportionate response

Proportionate offi cer response

Offi cer presence

• Includes method of approach• Uniform or plain clothes/pronouncement of offi ce• Includes indirect deployment of police dogs


• Can be verbal and non-verbal• Can be with or without batons• Includes interim deployment of police dogs.

Primary Control Skills

• As the wording suggests- skills an offi cer may try fi rst• Use of empty hand skills Escort Position Arm/wrist locks Compliance Techniques• Compliant Handcuffi ng, ERB, use of baton for restraint

Secondary Control Skills

• Use of aerosol incapacitants, PAVA

Defensive Tactics

• Blocks/strikes/takedown using empty hand skills or batons all followed by control techniques


Less Lethal Options

• Use of Taser, baton rounds or direct deployment of police dogs.

Lethal/Deadly Force

• Any action, which is intended to or is likely to cause serious bodily harm or death. This includes some empty hand skills, some baton skills and fi rearms.

Actions

Taking into consideration all the information and intelligence, threat assessment, powers and policies, proportionate offi cer response the offi cer will take the appropriate physical action.

The offi cer must show that the use of force was proportionate to the amount of resistance that they were facing and they used the least intrusive practicable option available to them.

Five occasions when tactical communications may fail

Whilst it is always preferred to deal with an encounter with the lowest level of force this is not always possible. There are fi ve occasions where communications skills alone may fail and other options should be considered.

SAFER

Security When there is imminent danger to any person when property under police protection/control is threatened.

Attack When the offi cer, or other persons, are being attacked or personal safety is jeopardised.

Flight When a suspect or prisoner runs away from the offi cer.

Excessive repetition When it becomes obvious that no voluntary compliance will be forthcoming.

Revised priorities When the encounter changes and requires immediate action on a different response level.


Reading clues to potentially violent behaviourComponents of communication

Communication is a two-way process in which we interact with others. When we communicate on a face-to-face basis this information exchange process has 3 major components.

1. Words - actual spoken words, phrases and content. Making up 7% of the total message.

2. Body language (Kinesics) - gestures - facial expressions Making up 55% of the total message.

3. Vocal (Paralanguage) - Tone, volume, intonation, pitch, pace Making up the remaining 38% of the total message.

These fi gures show clearly that the majority of the message is non-verbal - concerning delivery. It is, therefore, vitally important that offi cer learn to use appropriate body language which concurs with what they are saying.

If there is a confl ict between body language and the spoken word, people naturally believe the body language. The spoken word is controlled consciously for the most part whilst body language is controlled sub-consciously and is therefore much harder to lie with.

A further pertinent reason for offi cers understanding of this issue is that of predicting an offender’s actions in threat situations. This may allow an offi cer to act before an offender launches his/her attack.

Identifi cation of warning signs

Generally, aggressors who are aroused to the point of fi ghting do not launch such an assault spontaneously and without warning. They initially exhibit behaviour and gestures known as ritualised combat.

By learning to identify some of these signals and gestures offi cers can give themselves a signifi cant tactical advantage.

Such warning signs include:

• direct prolonged eye contact• facial colour darkens• head is pulled back• subject stands tall to maximise height and capacity to observe• ground kicking• large movements - close to the offi cer, particularly with arms and hands• acceleration of breathing rate• exhibition of non-verbal adapter (abruptly starting or stopping some form of behaviour)

Additionally the subject may exhibit personal identifi cation, where they indicate that the offi cer is the problem and, as a consequence, begin directing aggression towards that offi cer.

Offi cers should be aware that when they identify these signs the subject is becoming distressed or aroused to the point where they may initiate violence.

A keen awareness of the reactionary gap is most important under these circumstances.The offi cer should also be considering use of force options - saving on subsequent reaction time.


Identifi cation of danger signs

Danger signs are more than warning signs. Aggressors begin to lose control physically. When this occurs their physical signals are signifi cant and spontaneous. It is critical that police offi cers understand and recognise these signals as they are indicative of imminent attack.

Neglecting or ignoring these signals will put offi cers at a serious tactical disadvantage.

• Fists clenching and unclenching• Facial Colour pales• Lips tighten over teeth• Head drops forward to protect throat• Eyebrows drop to protect the eyes• Hands rise above waist• Shoulders tense• Stance changes from square on to sideways• Aggressor breaks eye contact and looks at intended target area• If they are out of reach the fi nal signal of attack will be a lowering of their entire body

before moving forward.

When an offi cer observes these signals they should take action by disengaging to establish reactionary gap or move forward to establish control.

Options open to an offi cer include :

• creating space - move away - barriers• use of loud positive verbal commands• establishing and maintaining a defensive stance• moving quickly to establish control on the outside of a persons fi ghting arc• drawing PAVA or baton


Active listening

This has been described as

“A system of opening and maintaining communications through the use of empathy, listening and body language”.

It is very important that we listen properly. It is not a natural skill. In fact most people tend not to work very hard at listening but, rather, are waiting to interrupt. They are so intent on saying their piece that they miss most of what the other person is saying.

Whilst humans have the capacity to hear up to 400 words a minute they can only speak a maximum of 120 words in that time. As a result our minds tend to wander ahead of what the speaker is saying. Because of this judgements and decisions are sometimes made before all the relevant information is listened to.

Good listening is a basic confl ict resolution skill.

By listening more closely offi cers can drop the normal give and take of conversation and pay more attention to the subject’s point of view and less to their own.

Four steps to active listening

1. Be willing to listen. Act unbiased and fair. Do not appear pre-occupied.2. Listen to the whole message. Not just what you want to hear.3. Interpret what is said. Some factors (cultural/educational) may affect this interpretation.4. Interact using the information you have gained. Even if the matter appears trivial appearing

to act will often achieve the same result as acting. Give the person the feeling that their point is important enough to warrant action.

Before acting (or reacting) offi cers should remember that people in highly charged situations hardly ever say what they mean. Offi cers should seek to identify the problem by listening. In acting they should be:

Hard on the problem, soft on the person

Simple rules

In our active listening roles there are simple rules which may help offi cers in the communication process.

• Don’t think ahead about what you will say.• Don’t ignore or deny the subject’s feelings.• Don’t pretend you’ve understood. If you haven’t - seek further information.• Don’t talk about your personal views - you could make yourself the problem.• Do acknowledge their point of view. This doesn’t mean you agree - only that you understand

why they are angry or upset.

Empathy is a truly powerful word. Its proper use can defuse confrontation and open channels for communications. It should not be confused with sympathy. Empathy means feeling for or attempting to understand someone else’s position.

Part of the empathetic process is the ability to recognise the encounter for what it is and react accordingly. This will prevent offi cers from showing a personal bias, which limits and detracts from the communications process.


Diagnosing a verbal encounterRecognising the confl ict

In order to diagnose the encounter and deal skilfully with people under stress offi cers should consider the following acronym:

PACE

Problem Try to identify the problem from two angles

• Professional - how you defi ne it• Rhetorical - how they defi ne it

Audience Audiences are found, not made. They tend to gather and can affect the relationship between the offi cer and offender.

Constraints Obstacles to effective communications You can choose to:

(a) Step around(b) Ignore(c) Use

Ethical Presence Professional presence as seen by others. Offi cers represent the professional, caring, Police Service.

The offi cer, in using good tactical communications skills, is trying to benefi t both parties in the confrontation:

To generate voluntary compliance

They should try using PACE, asking themselves, what is the problem? How does my opponent see it? How does he/she differ from me and what constraints make them so diffi cult to deal with today? In dealing with such they should try to keep a concerned, caring, face – that, in itself, can often defl ect abuse and resolve a situation.


Five tools for generating voluntary complianceBy adopting a non-physical ̀ game plan’ it may be possible to achieve voluntary compliance from a potentially resistant subject.

Such a plan can revolve around fi ve simple `tools’.

LEAPS

Listen Active listening

Empathise Show understanding

Ask If you need more information

Paraphrase Put the facts as you see them in your own words. If you’ve misunderstood the subject will see you are trying and he/she will want to help you to get it right.

Summarise Condense the facts, be brief and fi nal - acting offi cial capacity, before taking action.

This is an easy plan that offi cers can utilise in all communications processes, not just confl ict situations. The more it is used and practised, the more effi cient the offi cers become in the task of generating voluntary compliance from potentially resistant persons.


Dealing with totally resistant subjectsThe fi ve steps

Words alone will not control or resolve every encounter with a subject intent on resisting offi cers.

The following fi ve step system is a professional method of communication when resistance levels persist or increase.

Step 1 ASK

Ask - Most people will respond to a direct request from the Police.

Step 2 EXPLAIN

Explain why you have made the request - what law has been contravened - what conduct has caused your request.

Step 3 GIVE OPTIONS

Tell the person what they can expect to gain or lose. Create and present options for them.

Step 4 CONFIRM YOUR POSITION

This is where you confi rm the resistance and tell them what is required. Following a refusal a good court-defensible phrase is “Is there anything I can reasonably do or say to make you comply with my lawful request?”

This easily-recognisable phrase also acts like a signal to other offi cers that this was the last line of dialogue before taking physical action.

Step 5 TAKE ACTION

A physical force option. This is a necessity because of the subject’s continued or escalating resistance. The offi cer will choose his/her force option based on their perceptions of the resistance offered and other impact factors as per the Confl ict Management Model.

The use of the phrase at Step 4 is particularly useful as it:

• Warns other offi cers so they can prepare to act for imminent physical confrontation• Contains an element of surprise over the subject who does not hear “If you don’t – then

I will have to ………… etc”.


ProxemicsProxemics is a term that was coined by a Professor Edward HALL, Professor of anthropology at North Western University, U.S.A.. He used it to describe his theories and observations about man’s “personal space”.

Everyone has their own territorial needs, which may vary from time to time, depending on several factors:

• Sex• Culture• Familiarisation• Emotion• Environment

Just by changing the distance between the offi cer and subject feelings and personal behaviour can be altered - either positively or adversely.

Personal space

“The invisible psychological boundary that surrounds a person and permits a person to maintain a protective distance from others.”

Territorial needs can be broken down into three zones, from a defensive tactics point of view.

INTIMATE ZONE Body contact to 18 inches - normally reserved for close friends and family members. This zone is only normally breached to fi ght or for intimate contact.

PERSONAL ZONE From 18 inches to about 14 feet away. This is zone in which most social interaction, learning and threatening/ritualistic fi ghting takes place.

PUBLIC ZONE This distance is over 14 feet. At, or over, this range little normal contact takes place. Public speaking/lectures take place, but this is not normally a personal communication.

As Police Offi cers most communications take place within the personal zone, probably at a distance of 4 to 6 feet. This is a safe reactionary gap but offi cers should remain aware that angry/frustrated people may need more personal space.

Offi cers should only encroach on the intimate zone of a subject under their (the offi cer’s) terms to effect control or offer support.

The use of space in communication is seen regularly and its power should be utilised. An offi cer’s appearance may help in this area. Those who are well presented visually and project a fair, unbiased, demeanour may fi nd it easier to “get close” to a subject without raising their levels of aggression.


ConclusionConfl ict can be positive or negative, constructive or destructive, depending on what we make of it.

When offi cers fi nd themselves in confl ict with others they should attempt to use their existing communication skills and develop others with practice.

Experts consider that up to 87% of information with others takes place through the eyes, 9% through the ears and the remaining 4% through the other senses. This is why the understanding of non-verbal signals is so important. Armed with this information offi cers may be able to:

• predict an offender’s behaviour.• ensure that they (the offi cer) are giving the correct non-verbal messages which concur

with the spoken word.

When offi cers fi nd themselves in a high risk situation they should start planning what they will do in the event of violence occurring, considering:

• tactical positioning• escape routes• proxemics• weapons• summoning assistance• taking physical action to achieve control

Such planning can save valuable time, enhance the offi cers chances of survival and reduce the possibility of injury considerably.

Everything in this document is aimed at achieving the two goals of Tactical Communications:

• ENHANCED OFFICER SAFETY• ENHANCED PROFESSIONALISM

By devoting time and energy to training in Tactical Communications skills offi cers should be in a position to achieve both such goals.




03000 111 222

CONFLICT MANAGEMENT


Unarmed Defensive Tactics

2-1DEFENSIVE TACTICS TRAININGUnarmed Defensive Tactics

ContentsIntroduction ........................................................................................... 2-3Confl ict Management Model ...................................................................... 2-4


Approach and position ............................................................................. 2-9Proxemics .............................................................................................. 2-10Proper stance ......................................................................................... 2-11Defensive stance .................................................................................... 2-11Movement ............................................................................................. 2-12

Forwards/backwards ........................................................................ 2-12Lateral movement - strong side/weak side ......................................... 2-13

Tactical communications .......................................................................... 2-14Stress reactions for offi cer survival ............................................................ 2-15Practical techniques ................................................................................ 2-15Overcoming low level resistance ............................................................... 2-16

Base of the ear ............................................................................... 2-17Middle ear ...................................................................................... 2-17Rear of the collar bone .................................................................... 2-18

Breakaway techniques ............................................................................ 2-19The pinch....................................................................................... 2-19The arm circle ................................................................................ 2-19The rib rub ..................................................................................... 2-20SPEAR ........................................................................................... 2-21Less than 90 degrees drill ................................................................ 2-22Outside 90 degree drill .................................................................... 2-23SPEAR technique ........................................................................... 2-243 step bear hug drill ........................................................................ 2-24Thumb pop immediate action drill ..................................................... 2-26The seated 3 step bear hug drill ........................................................ 2-27Bicep push immediate action drill ...................................................... 2-29

Striking techniques ................................................................................. 2-31Trauma chart – front and rear view ................................................. 2-32Striking techniques ......................................................................... 2-33

Practical application ................................................................................ 2-34Strikes using the leg ........................................................................ 2-34The knee strike ............................................................................... 2-34The sweeping kick ........................................................................... 2-35Strikes using the arms ..................................................................... 2-36Palm heel strike .............................................................................. 2-36Bottom fi st strike ............................................................................ 2-38Forearm strike ................................................................................ 2-39Striking techniques – overall considerations ........................................ 2-39

Control techniques .................................................................................. 2-40Transport wristlock .......................................................................... 2-41Ground pin ..................................................................................... 2-42The leg pin ..................................................................................... 2-43Directing to prone ........................................................................... 2-44The straight arm bar ....................................................................... 2-44The pull down ................................................................................. 2-45Control techniques – overall considerations ........................................ 2-46

Alcohol and drugs ................................................................................... 2-46Ground fi ghting ...................................................................................... 2-46

Offi cer grounded/subject grounded ................................................... 2-47Medical conditions................................................................................... 2-48

2-2 DEFENSIVE TACTICS TRAININGUnarmed Defensive Tactics

Positional Asphyxia ......................................................................... 2-48Acute Behavioural Disorder (ABD) ..................................................... 2-49

Conclusion ............................................................................................. 2-51


IntroductionThere is a tactical need for legitimate empty hands methods of controlling subjects. Offi cers must be taught techniques which are:

• easy to learn• east to remember• effective for - smaller persons against larger persons - females against males• useful to persons who are no longer in their physical prime.

In the past many techniques have been martial arts based. Unfortunately police offi cers generally do not devote the hours of training necessary to attain the required skill level.

Additionally, many martial arts do not provide the goal to be achieved control without major injuries.

Such injuries may have serious consequences later in court, for the offi cer and the organisation.

This system of empty hand tactics has therefore been formulated to be simple and to have a lower injury potential than was previously the case.

Techniques contained within this system are, therefore, more specifi c to policing needs and easier to perform, with minimal training, allowing an offi cer to gain and maintain control of a resistant or potentially resistant subject. The inclusion of techniques has required a combination of maximum potential for control with a minimum injury potential.

As with other defensive tactics, the use of unarmed defensive tactics is a use of force.

THE OBJECTIVE OF POLICE USE OF FORCE

is

TO PRESERVE THE SAFETY

OF

OFFICERS AND INNOCENT PERSONS

AND THE SUBJECT WHERE POSSIBLE

BY

ESTABLISHING CONTROL

To promote professionalism and understanding of use of force it is necessary to have a standard use of force model to which offi cers can refer. The Confl ict Management Model will allow offi cers not only to take the correct action in the operational arena but will also enable them to effectively indicate those actions and provide sound justifi cation for doing so.



It is possible to lay the foundation for an understandable, fl exible, usable policy which will offer not only guidance, but also support to Police Offi cers.







ConstantCycle






Threat Assessment




Compliance




Passive resistance


Active resistance














Powers and Policies

Use of force Policy





Powers












The Use of non-lethal force is still guided by a test of reasonableness rather than “the use of force which is no more than absolutely necessary”. The Convention however raises related issues in respect of proportionality. Is the force used proportionate to the wrong that it seeks to avoid or the harm it seeks to prevent? Is the use of force chosen the least intrusive or damaging practicable option? Careful consideration must be given to striking a fair balance between the rights of the suspect/s, subjects or offenders and the interests and rights of the community at large.




Article 2





It is therefore imperative that use of force reporting and statement making is undertaken in line with the training on such issues, relating the response directly to offender conduct and impact factors, as per the Confl ict Management Model, indicating all the relevant circumstances that led to the use of lethal force. Regard must be paid to the aim pursued; the dangers to life and limb inherent in the situation and the degree of risk that the force employed might result in the loss of life.

Tactical Options



Offi cer presence



• Can be verbal and non-verbal• Can be with or without batons/PAVA• Includes interim deployment of police dogs.





Defensive Tactics



Less Lethal Options


Lethal/Deadly Force


Actions




Approach and positionThe way in which offi cers approach a person and their relative position is of critical importance in reducing the possibility of assault or injury to the offi cer.

0ffi cers can adopt a position and approach which allows them a tactical advantage without making other persons feel threatened or uncomfortable.

Tactical positioning diagram

Off Shoulder Right Off Shoulder Left

In referring to the diagram above note the shaded area immediately in front of the person. This shows the ‘fi ghting arc’ - a 180° arc in front of the body in which people have a high degree of natural fi ghting skill. As a result most resistance occurs within that arc.

When offi cers are approaching or attempting to arrest a violent offender they should remain aware of this and stay outside the fi ghting arc.

The optimum approach position is diagonally off one of the prisoner’s shoulders. This will allow this offi cer to adopt the escort position on fi rst contact.


ProxemicsOffi cers should remain aware of the distance between themselves and a potential aggressor.

A reactionary gap of less than 6 feet makes it extremely diffi cult to defend against a spontaneous assault. Tests have shown a gap of 12 feet can be covered in less than a second.

By using good approach and position, combined with tactical communications skills offi cers can maintain this reactionary gap of 6 feet without alienating people.

This gap should be penetrated on the offi cer’s terms with a decision to breach that distance to effect arrest or achieve control.

Wherever possible offi cers should attempt to remain outside the fi ghting arc at the end of the reactionary gap and should consider lateral movement to achieve this.

It may then be possible to combine this with defensive blocking skills thus giving the offi cer a further advantage.

It is, however, recognised that there will be times the offi cer fi nds him/herself immediately in front of an offender and must execute defensive tactics spontaneously from that position.


Proper stanceA further element to add to the area of positioning is that of proper stance.

Offi cers should draw their strong (dominant) side back by stepping back on their strong leg and keeping their feet about shoulder width apart.

Knees should be slightly bent with weight evenly distributed between the two legs. Hands should be brought above the waist in a non-threatening but tactically advantageous manner, allowing for fast defensive or offensive movements.

Defensive stanceThis stance is made slightly higher profi le in that the arms are raised with palms facing, up or away. This is a defensive gesture, which allows for fast natural blocking or striking. Note: that the fi sts are not clenched.

This stance still allows the offi cer to attempt tactical communications with the aggressor, even though the arms are forming a barrier between the two.

The strong hand may remain at belt level if protection or access to defensive equipment is required.


MovementSelf-protection and subject control are not static activities. It is dynamic so there must be movement.

The purposes of such movement are to:

• maintain distance• create distance• close distance• place the offi cer in a position of advantage • add power to a technique

Offi cers must understand that the whole body is used in defensive and control efforts.

Movement can be forwards, backwards, laterally to strong side or laterally to weak side.

Forwards/backwards

Movement either forwards or backwards is best done with a shuffl e step. This permits fast balanced movement in both directions.

Execution of the forward shuffl e

The offi cer adopts a defensive stance

To move forwards the offi cer slides his front foot forwards. As the offi cer’s momentum moves him forwards he slides his rear foot forwards to re-assume his defensive stance.


Execution of the backwards shuffl e

The backwards shuffl e is performed in the same way - sliding the back foot rearwards and following it with the front foot.

The simple rule to follow is that whichever direction the offi cer is to travel in, the foot nearest to the intended direction leads the way.

Research shows that the shuffl e step allows much faster controlled backwards movement than merely walking or trying to run backwards.

Lateral movement - strong side/weak side

It may sometimes be necessary for an offi cer to side step to avoid a threat.

The same rule applies with the foot nearest the intended direction of travel leading the way.

Execution - lateral shuffl e - strong side

Offi cer adopts a defensive stance. The offi cer moves strong leg, to the strong side. Offi cer slides weak leg to re-establish defensive stance.

The weak side lateral shuffl e is a reverse of the movements involved in the strong side lateral shuffl e.

An alternative way to move is to pivot the body. This allows the offi cer to rapidly move to a position of advantage or avoid being grabbed, kicked or punched.


Tactical communicationsCommunication skills are an integral part of any defensive tactics system, with experts’ world-wide considering that in excess of 90% of incidents of physical violence could be avoided with good tactical communications skills.

Such skills are dealt with in-depth in a separate document but this document includes advice for offi cers where violence is imminent.

Crisis communication skills should be viewed from three perspectives:

1. prior to physical engagement2. during the encounter3. following the incident with control achieved

1. Prior to the encounter

• Use quiet tones• Avoid remarks of a threatening/intimidatory nature• Use simple language with short phrases as in a highly charged situation people will

fail to understand complicated messages• Listen actively to what the other person is saying in an attempt to identify the problem• As an assault appears imminent - change dialogue to shorter 1 or 2 word phrases

STOP - GET BACK - STAY BACK.

Volume should increase dramatically to add impact to the message

Should the offi cer need to employ physical techniques following such verbal messages it will make defence of those actions easier to defend in the court arena.

Witness perception is also enhanced, with there being a clear indication to persons present that offi cers were attempting to resolve the situation without physical force.

2. During the encounter

Physical actions must obviously take priority but it may be possible to again give simple clear messages - “STOP FIGHTING- “STOP RESISTING” “STOP KICKING”.

This is again advantageous in terms of witness perception and court defensibility.

It is most important at this stage that messages are simple, with research showing that complicated verbal messages cause the sender to more than double physical reaction time.

3. Following the encounter with control achieved

At this stage it is important to show an ability to de-escalate, with a lowering of volume and an attempt to reassure the offender, particularly if they have been controlled to a prone position or have suffered pain.

Phrases such as “Relax it’s over” or “Calm down stop struggling”.

Information as to your next steps is also in order - such as “I’m now going to handcuff you” or “I’m going to stand you up”.

Such information gives the prisoner the chance to comply with or assist offi cers in their actions.

Offi cers should never underestimate the power of good tactical communications. Experience has shown that it is sometimes what the offi cers say not what they do that makes the difference between conviction and acquittal in the legal process.


Stress reactions for offi cer survivalWhen involved in stressful situations animals suffer particular physical reactions. The human animal is no exception, with such reactions being particularly strong under threat or violence or injury.

Modern researchers have documented over 150 changes, which take place in such stressful situations. These include but are not limited to:

• adrenaline surges• increase in heart rate/circulation• increase in respiration rate• increase in muscular tension• reduction in the peripheral fi eld• reduction in decision making ability• reduction in fi ne/complex motor skill ability• auditory exclusion• perceptual distortions

Whilst these are just a few such reactions they all have a signifi cant bearing on offi cers’ abilities to protect themselves. Research suggests that offi cer survival is a matter of preparation and training and that reaction time can be enhanced if persons are aware of the limitations of the brain and the body under stress. Being aware of such reactions also helps to prevent panic.

This system of empty hand skills has therefore, been designed around motor skills that are simple require little decision making and are enhanced by increased heart rate and muscular tension.

The net result of this should be that offi cers will be equipped with skills that are both usable and effective under stress.

Practical techniquesIn the teaching of empty hand skills there is a need to teach from three distinct perspectives, to allow for structured training:

1. identifi cation of body weapons (which parts of the body do we apply force with?)2. identifi cation of body targets (which parts or areas of the body do we apply force to?)3. method of application

• touch pressure - commonly called pressure point control• striking• compliance holds

Guidance is given in these areas throughout this section of the manual, dealing with practical techniques.

All techniques have been included having regard to ease of application, effectiveness and medical implications for offi cers and subjects.


Overcoming low level resistanceThe use of pressure point control to overcome low level resistance is extremely useful.

Persons offering passive resistance to offi cers attempt to control them, may be controlled using such techniques. The separating of combatant persons may also be achieved through these methods.

Properly used, with follow-up control techniques where necessary, these pressure point techniques allow low level actions to achieve control.

Surprisingly little pressure is needed to achieve compliance, making these skills usable by offi cers with limited upper body strength.

Such pressure points are limited to the head and neck area, making them easily accessible in the majority of circumstances.

Touch pressure can be applied causing pain and or mental stunning to achieve compliance.

Pressure points of the head and neck(Primary control skills)

The three points used within this programme to allow offi cers to achieve control through the low level response option of applying pressure are:

• the base of the ear• the middle ear• the rear of the collar bone

Middle Ear

Base of Ear

Rear of Collar Bone


Base of the ear

This pressure point is located in the small hollow at the base of the ears

Body weapon: fi nger or thumb tips.

Application

• Approach from off the shoulder to the rear• Pressure is applied at a 45’ angle towards the centre of the top of the head.• With the strong hand applying the pressure the other hand should be used to• stabilise the head and prevent movement by the subject.• It is important that pressure is relieved on compliance to prevent an adrenaline rush.

Additionally the continued application of pressure following compliance is no longer reasonable – and therefore is not lawful

• Offi cers should give loud repetitive verbal commands as to required action.

Middle ear

Body weapon: knuckle

Application

• Approach from off the shoulder to the rear.• Check to see if the subject has any foreign objects in the ear• Apply the body weapon to the application site. One hand applies pressure, whilst the other

hand is used to stabilise the head and neck to prevent movement by the subject.• Pressure is applied at 90 degrees towards the centre of the head.• It is important that pressure is relieved on compliance to prevent an adrenaline rush.

Additionally the continued application of pressure following compliance is no longer reasonable and therefore unlawful. Offi cers should give loud repetitive verbal commands as to required action.


Rear of the collar bone

This pressure point is situated in the hollow behind the collarbone.

Body weapon: fi ngers

Application

• Approach the subject from off the shoulder to the rear• The offi cer then brings the arm underneath the subjects arm and places the fi ngers over

the top of the subjects collar bone.• The offi cers free hand should be used to protect themselves and support the subject at the

same time.• Pressure is applied downwards at a 45 degree angle towards the centre of the body. This

causes the person to lower their stance, which naturally relieves the pressure.• Loud repetitive verbal commands should be given as to required action.


Breakaway techniques Offi cers may fi nd themselves in situations where the subject has managed to close down the safe reactionary gap and have taken hold of the offi cer, therefore we need to employ low level tactics in response to a low level of threat. The program contains four breakaway techniques which offi cers can employ if required. They are;

• the pinch• the arm circle• The rub rub• SPEAR

Remember that the objective of the breakaway technique is to facilitate release, and re-establish a safe reactionary gap.

The pinch

The offi cer takes up a defensive stance but he subject has managed to take hold of the offi cer.

The body target area

The body target area is located on the underside of the upper arm about half way between the elbow and the armpit.

Body weapon: thumb and fi ngers

Application

The offi cer locates the target area with their thumbs and fi ngers. He or she then takes hold of the soft fl eshy underarm pinches the skin at the same time as twisting and pushing up. The offi cer should also employ crisis communication skills whilst applying the technique. This may result in the subject releasing their grip on the offi cer.

The arm circle

This technique relies on working against the weakest part of hold, the grip but it also makes best use of the bodies lack of ability to cope with two stimulus’s at the same time. The offi cer has taken up a defensive stance but the subject has still manages to take hold of the offi cer.


The body target area consists of the forearms.


Body weapon: the offi cers forearms

Application

The offi cer brings their strong hand through the gap created by the subjects arms and makes a fi st with the strong hand. The offi cer then places their other hand over the top of the subjects forearm and places their weak hand over the top of the fi st. The offi cer then raises the strong side elbow whilst simultaneously lowering the weak side elbow and twisting their body away at the same time. The offi cer should also employ crisis communication at the same time as applying the technique

The rib rub

The rib rub is an effective tactic for overcoming low level resistance. It is particularly useful in dealing with subjects that have taken hold of persons or objects and are refusing to release their grip.


The ribs about at the side of the body approximately fi ve inches below the arm pit

Body weapon: knuckle

Application

The offi cer approaches the subject off the shoulder to the rear and places the body weapon on to the target area. The offi cers free hand should protect their head / face.

Pressure is applied at a 90 degree angle to the body whilst rubbing the knuckle up and down over the rib area. The offi cer should also employ crisis communication at the same time as applying the technique.


SPEAR

SPEAR is an acronym which stands for;

• Spontaneous• Protection• Enabling• Accelerated• Response

The body weapon

The body weapon utilised in the SPEAR technique is the “Sweet spot”. The sweet spot is located on the underside (little fi nger side) of the forearm approximately 3 inches down from the base of the hand. This hard surface area will be used to access the body target area.


The target area consists of a 45 degree angle between the subjects collar bone, chest and sternum.

Before we look at the application of the SPEAR technique it is important to understand why the SPEAR system is so effective as a technique. To demonstrate this we will fi rst look at two strengthening drills. Remember that this technique is about protecting yourself from a spontaneous attack which occurs within the intimate zone (0-18 inches), we are not suggesting that you would routinely stand directly in front of a potentially resistant subject just to perform this technique.


Less than 90 degrees drill

The offi cer will stand directly in front of the subject at approximately 18 inches away from each other. The offi cer places their forearm across the chest of the subject, their fi st is clenched, palm facing down and the angle at the elbow is less than 90 degrees. The subject then placers both their hands on the shoulders of the offi cer. Both the subject and the offi cer look to their left to avoid clashing heads. Once in this position the subject will say “ready” and as soon as the offi cer says ready the subject will start to apply pressure by pulling the offi cer towards them. The objective for the offi cer is to try to hold the subject away from them until it is impossible to do so and that gap is breached.

As the angle at the elbow is les that 90 degrees and the fi st is clenched the offi cer will fi nd it very diffi cult to prevent the gap from closing.


Outside 90 degree drill

The offi cer will stand directly in front of the subject at approximately 18 inches from each other. The offi cer will place their forearm across the subjects chest at a 45 degree angle. This time the fi st is open and the fi ngers are spread apart. The angle at the elbow is greater than 90 degrees. The subject places their hands on the offi cers shoulders and both look to the left. The subject says “Ready” and as soon as the offi cer says “Ready”, the subject applies pressure gradually to try and bring the offi cer closer to them. The offi cer applies pressure with the arm to resist closing the gap between them.

The above drill has just demonstrated that the outside 90 degree drill is far more effective at maintaining a gap between the offi cer and subject. Why is this?

The human body is set up to work in a certain way. If the angle at the elbow is less than 90 degrees, the body is designed to pull. The major movers in the pulling action are the biceps, which are relatively small. If the fi st is clenched, the extensor tendons are stretched and are in a relatively weak position. So the combination of less than 90 degrees and a clenched fi st is a weak position for the human body to try and exert signifi cant force.

However, if the angle at the elbow is more than 90 degrees, the human body is designed to push. In the pushing movement we recruit far more muscle groups such as triceps, deltoids, trapezius and latisimus dorsi. These bigger muscle groups are able to exert substantially more force than the biceps. The other major factor which contributes to the effectiveness of the outside 90 drill is the position of the hand. With the hand open and the fi ngers splayed, the cross extensor tendons are in a signifi cantly stronger position. All these factors combine to make the outside 90 degree position or SPEAR position far more effective.


SPEAR technique

The fi rst technique simulates a spontaneous attack where the offender has managed to take hold of the offi cer around the shoulders. The fi rst technique is designed to allow the offi cer to breakaway from the subject and re-establish a safe reactionary gap.

3 step bear hug drill

The offi cer stands directly opposite the subject. The offi cers right hand is placed on the offenders right shoulder. The offi cers left hand takes hold of the subjects right wrist. Both look to their respective left to avoid clashing heads. (Remember that we never advocate that you would take hold of a subject in this manner, this position safely simulates a spontaneous attack). The subject says “Ready” and as soon as the offi cer says “Ready” that is the subjects cue to launch the attack and push the offi cer back a maximum of three steps.


The offi cer reacts by instinctively bringing up the hands and arms in front of the face to protect the head. This is known as the “Primal SPEAR”.

However we need to establish some distance between the offi cer and the subject, so the offi cer extends the elbow outside 90 degrees by extending the arm slightly and pressing the “Sweet spot” on to the target area. This position is known as the “Protective SPEAR”.

The offi cer will then engage their abdominals and push down towards the fl oor. This position is known as the “Tactical SPEAR”.

The tactical SPEAR will allow the offi cer to disengage from the offender and re-establish a safe reactionary gap.


Thumb pop immediate action drill

Offi cers may come across situations where because of the physical size or strength of the subject that it is impossible to move from the “Primal SPEAR” to the “Protective SPEAR”, this immediate action drill will allow the access the “Protective SPEAR”. (Remember that not all techniques will work one hundred percent of the time. It may be necessary for offi cers to employ defensive tactics to disengage from the subject)

Thumb pop immediate action drill technique

The offi cer stands directly opposite the subject. The offi cers right hand is placed on the offenders right shoulder. The offi cers left hand takes hold of the subjects right wrist. Both look to their respective left to avoid clashing heads. (Remember that we never advocate that you would take hold of a subject in this manner, this position safely simulates a spontaneous attack). The subject says “Ready” and as soon as the offi cer says “Ready” that is the subjects cue to launch the attack and push the offi cer back a maximum of three steps.

The offi cer reacts by instinctively bringing up the hands and arms in front of the face to protect the head. This is known as the “Primal SPEAR”. In this case the offi cer is unable to move to the “Protective SPEAR”. Here the offi cer will remove the outer hand and either reach underneath or over the top of the subjects arm and take hold of his or her own thumb.

Once the offi cers hand is in position, the offi cer will pull directly upwards on the thumb, this has the effect of opening up the space between the offi cer and the subject. The offi cer is then able to engage the “Tactical SPEAR” (as above) and disengage from the subject.


The seated 3 step bear hug drill

In the previous drill the subject took hold of the offi cer around the upper body. In the following drill, the subject will take hold of the offi cer around the waist area.

The seated 3 step bear hug drill technique

The subject will be seated in a chair (the back of the chair must be supported by the wall), the offi cer stands in front of the subject, just to the subjects right. The offi cers right hand is placed on the offenders right shoulder. The offi cers left hand takes hold of the subjects right wrist. Both look to their respective left to avoid clashing heads. (Remember that we never advocate that you would take hold of a subject in this manner, this position safely simulates a spontaneous attack).

The subject says “Ready” and as soon as the offi cer says “Ready” that is the subjects cue to launch the attack, taking hold of the offi cer around the waist area and push the offi cer back a maximum of three steps.

The offi cer reacts by instinctively bringing up the hands and arms in front of the face to protect the head. This is known as the “Primal SPEAR”.


However we need to establish some distance between the offi cer and the subject, so the offi cer extends the elbow outside 90 degrees by extending the arm slightly and pressing the “Sweet spot” on to the target area. This position is known as the “Protective SPEAR”.

The offi cer will then engage their abdominals and push down towards the fl oor. This position is known as the “Tactical SPEAR”.

The tactical SPEAR will allow the offi cer to disengage from the offender and re-establish a safe reactionary gap.


Bicep push immediate action drill

Offi cers may fi nd that they have reacted very quickly, or the subject has grabbed lower down and they have ended up not being able to place their hands in between their body and the subject. In this situation we can employ the bicep push immediate action drill.

Bicep push immediate action technique

The subject will be seated in a chair (the back of the chair must be supported by the wall), the offi cer stands in front of the subject, just to the subjects right. The offi cers right hand is placed on the offenders right shoulder. The offi cers left hand takes hold of the subjects right wrist. Both look to their respective left to avoid clashing heads. (Remember that we never advocate that you would take hold of a subject in this manner, this position safely simulates a spontaneous attack). The subject says “Ready” and as soon as the offi cer says “Ready” that is the subjects cue to launch the attack, taking hold of the offi cer around the waist area and push the offi cer back a maximum of three steps.

This time the offi cer has ended up with both arms free. The offi cer places his / her right bicep against the side of the subjects head and extends their arm away from the body. This moves the subjects head to the right. The offi cer then places their left hand on the back of the subjects head and whilst this is in place the offi cer places the right forearm sweet spot on the neck / collar bone area. The offi cer then pushes the right arm forward opening up the angle to outside 90 degrees into the “Protective SPEAR” and then engage the abdominals into the “Tactical SPEAR”. The tactical SPEAR will allow the offi cer to disengage from the offender and re-establish a safe reactionary gap.


Striking techniquesTrauma chart and target areas

Where lower levels of control have been attempted and proved ineffective, or judged to be inappropriate, offi cers may use striking techniques to achieve control.

Properly referred to as distraction techniques their purpose is to distract the subject by causing:

• balance displacement• change of thought process, mental stunning - lasting 3 to 7 seconds• weakening of motor action• motor dysfunction - lasting for 30 seconds to several minutes• pain

The overriding principle of such techniques is that their use is to overcome resistance and achieve control, not punishment.

Because strikes are more dynamic and impart more energy injury potential is higher than that for the pressure point techniques. By utilising correct targets on the human body it is, however, possible to minimise the injury potential.

Primary target areas (green), consist of nerve motor points which maximise effectiveness in terms of control potential whilst at the same time reducing the chance of injury to the subject. Because these areas are also soft tissue the possibility of injury to offi cers as a result of striking is also reduced.

Because these areas are nerve motor points, which can cause temporary motor dysfunction, their effectiveness is not based on pain compliance. This is particularly useful in dealing with drunken or drugged persons whose pain thresholds may be artifi cially raised. Properly executed these techniques therefore will still affect those persons. Secondary target areas (yellow), consist of bones and joints, with the risk of moderate and longer lasting resultant trauma.

Final target areas (red), consist of the eyes, throat, neck and spine and other areas which pose a threat of serious bodily harm or fatality if subject of striking techniques. The two exceptions to this are the strike to the suprascapular (bottom of neck) using the bottom fi st technique and a distraction technique to the face using an open palm.


Trauma chart – front and rear view (with primary, secondary and fi nal target areas indicated)

Primary target areas

• inner forearm• outer forearm• inside upper arm• outside upper arm• inside thigh• outside thigh• calf

Secondary target areas

Should the use of primary target areas be ineffective or be judged inappropriate offi cers can make use of secondary target areas.

Caution is advised as these have higher injury potential and may require more justifi cation in line with the Confl ict Management Model.

These targets are:

• knees• ankles• wrists• elbows• ribcage area• groin

Striking these areas may cause substantial and possibly long lasting or permanent damage to joints and connective tissue. Striking these areas also increases the possibility of offi cer injury.


Final target areas

As their title suggests these areas should only be used when other targets have proved ineffective or are judged inappropriate by the offi cers.

These targets are

• eyes• neck/throat• spine

Striking these targets can cause serious, possibly fatal injury. As such offi cers must be prepared to justify their striking or such a target as in a deadly force situation.

Striking techniques

Body weapons

Within this empty hands system different parts of the body can be used to strike a resistive prisoner. Striking with these parts of the body is advisable due to their being simple instinctive skills, maximising performance under stress.

Identifi ed body weapons are

• the palm heel• the bottom fi st strike• the forearm• the knee• the shin

The practicalities of matching best body weapon to target for maximum effect is dealt with in the next section covering practical application.


Practical applicationIn using any of the techniques in this section a tactical positioning movement should be made wherever possible, as described under ‘Approach and Position’ on previously in this manual.

Strikes using the leg

Because of their strength and effectiveness, leg strikes are the preferred option.

Only two leg strikes are taught to maintain simplicity within the system.

The knee strike

At close quarters this is the strongest and most effective strike offi cers can use, to strike the thigh.

It is a simple technique designed to perform three functions:

1. to stop forward momentum of an aggressive offender2. to overcome resistance to the escort position3. to separate an aggressive offender from another person or fi xed object

Target areas for knee strike

• outside of thigh either low or high• inside of thigh

Technique execution

This technique is simply executed by the offi cer raising one of his/her feet from the fl oor and driving the knee into the target area at a 90 degree angle. The offi cer should attempt to point the toes of the striking leg down towards the fl oor and drive the hips forward to generate more power to the technique. This will ensure the correct application of the technique.


The sweeping kick

This leg strike uses the offi cers shin as a body weapon. The technique is a simple skill, which can be achieved by any offi cer. It can be used from in front of a resistant subject to strike the thigh, or it can be used from the side or rear to strike the calf.

The use of this technique is designed to stop forward momentum of an aggressive offender or to overcome resistance from the escort position and allow the offi cer to achieve control.

Target areas for sweeping kick

• outside of the thigh, high or low.• inside of the thigh• the calf

Technique execution from the front to stop the forward momentum of a resistant subject

The offi cer establishes the defensive stance. The subject comes towards the offi cer in an aggressive manner. Once the subject is within striking distance the offi cer steps slightly to their weak side then sweeps their strong leg forward in a circular motion. The offi cer should rotate the hips and turn the toes downwards slightly as they strike the target area.


Technique execution from the escort position

In the escort position the subject exhibits resistance. The offi cer responds by bringing the leg nearest to the subject up and striking downwards with their shin towards the calf area. The offi cer should try to ensure that the toe of the striking leg is pointed down towards the fl oor.

Strikes using the arms

In using any of the techniques in this section a tactical positioning movement should be made wherever possible, as described under ‘Approach and Position’ on page 10 of this manual.

Strikes using the arms are limited to three based around simple instinctive movements :

1. palm heel strike2. bottom fi st3. forearm

Palm heel strike

Palm heel technique provide benefi ts for the offi cer and the subject. When executed the subject with potentially receive less injury than if struck by a closed fi st. Because contact is made with the fl eshy part of the palm rather than the knuckles the benefi ts to the offi cer are that the injuries to the hand are reduced and public perception of this technique is more acceptable making it more court defensible.

The purpose of this technique is to stop forward momentum and distraction of an aggressive offender, to allow follow-up or to re-establish a reactionary gap.

Target areas for palm heel technique

Upper torso (as a strike)


Technique execution

This technique can be executed with one or two hands.

Palm heel technique

This is an extremely strong, fast and effective technique, using whole body-weight. It is used to re-establish reactionary gap. Offi cer faces offender in defensive stance. As the offender lunges forward the offi cer drives both palms forward, striking with both palms to the offender’s upper torso/shoulders. The offender is pushed backwards by the impact and the offi cer can re-establish the safe reactionary gap.


Bottom fi st strike

This technique is easily utilised by all offi cers. It is useful in separating combatant subjects, in making offenders release their grip on offi cers or making them release weapons. Depending on the target area being struck it can be executed from the front, side or rear of a combatant subject.

Technique execution

The hand is formed into a tight fi st, with the fl eshy part of the little fi nger side being used to make contact. The fi st is fi rst brought up above shoulder level in a large circular motion. The fi st is then brought down into contact with the target area, in a hammer like motion. As the fi st makes contact with the subject, the offi cer drops their weight slightly to add power to the technique.


Forearm strike

Only one strike using the forearm is included in this system. It is intended for use in overcoming straight arm resistance to the escort position however, it can be utilised from other positions to differing target areas.

Technique execution

Offi cer is holding the prisoner in the escort position. The offi cer’s outside arm is holding the prisoner’s wrist, whilst his/her inside arm is holding the prisoner’s elbow. The prisoner then locks out his arm to resist the offi cer. The police offi cer reacts to this immediately letting go of the prisoner’s elbow, dropping, the arm down. The police offi cer then swings his / her arm straight up using the thumb side of the forearm to impact on the inside edge of the prisoner’s bicep. At the same time as swing the arm up, the offi cer should bring the subjects arm down slightly to add impact to the technique.

Striking techniques – overall considerations

Striking techniques carry with them a higher potential for injury. In terms of justifi cation the offi cer should seek to identify

• offender behaviour• either aggressive/assaultive resistance or threat of same• other methods of control had been used and proved ineffective or were judged by the

offi cer to be inappropriate.

On the Confl ict Management Model tactical options, striking techniques should generally be viewed as defensive tactics.

When resistance/aggression ceases the use of such striking techniques also ceases, with the offi cer changing to control techniques.


Control techniquesControl techniques, or joint manipulations are regarded as primary control skills, along with pressure point techniques.

They are used to establish and maintain control over a resistant prisoner. Whilst these techniques are not expected to cause injury we must remain aware that ALL physical tactics carry with them a degree of potential injury.

This system only includes three control techniques which are simple to execute.:

• transport wristlock• ground pin• leg pin

A further advantage with this technique is that in the event of continued resistance it is possible to utilise pain compliance or direct the offender to prone quickly and effectively.

The technique is designed to be used from the escort position but with practice can be applied from other angles.

Principles of control techniques

1. Distraction

When resistance is encountered by offi cers it is unrealistic to expect that a control technique can be applied without distracting the offender. A distraction technique is designed to weaken motor action which will then allow the offi cer the ability to effectively apply the control technique.

The two distraction strikes used primarily before the application of a control technique are included in the section on Leg and Arm Strikes.

1. the knee strike to the thigh2. the forearm strike to the bicep

Both of these are appropriate to a speedy follow-up control technique.

These add to a weakening of the resistance making a control technique easier to apply.

A further advantage is that both techniques are low profi le in terms of witness perceptions.

2. Loud repetitive verbal commands

Whenever time permits, verbal commands should be employed when force is used on a subject. This informs the subject what is required, giving him/her a chance to comply.

The use of verbal commands is closely associated with a de-escalation of force or compliance. The subject who is being physically controlled realises that if compliance is forthcoming to verbal commands a de-escalation of force will result.

It is important to use loud repetitive commands as the offender may suffer auditory exclusion due to the nature of the confrontation.

It is further possible that the offender may be drunk again necessitating such verbalisation.


3. Follow-up to prone for handcuffi ng

Control techniques should end with the ability to either disengage and escalate or direct the subject to prone for handcuffi ng procedure.

The transition to prone should be smooth and controlled, giving the subject no opportunity to escape or escalate resistance.

Handcuffi ng should be completed as rapidly as possible and the prisoner re-positioned from prone to avoid the risk of positional asphyxia.

Transport wristlock

Technique execution

Offi cer approaches and establishes contact with escort position. The subject exhibits active resistance. The offi cer responds with the forearm strike with the arm that is nearest the subject, to the bicep area. This gives the offi cer a split second when he / she can then apply the transport wrist lock. The offi cer pulls the subjects elbow towards them and places the subjects elbow in between his / her arm and body. The subjects forearm is parallel to the fl oor. The offi cer places his / her hand that is closest to the subjects body on the back of the wrist with fi ngers over the top of the wrist and thumb underneath the subjects wrist. The subjects fi ngers are pointing down towards the ground. The offi cers free hand can be used to either reinforce the wrist lock or to protect themselves from the subject.


Ground pin

The ground pin position is a particularly useful technique for controlling a subject whilst they are on the fl oor. The offi cer can either talk the subject into a position where the offi cer can approach and establish the ground pin or the technique can be applied following a struggle in on the ground.

Application - talking the subject into position

The offi cer will maintain a safe reactionary gap whilst reinforcing their tactical communication with either Pava or baton drawn. The offi cer will instruct the subject to lay face down on the fl oor, place their arms out at shoulder height, show the palms of their hands, cross their legs and look away from the offi cer. The offi cer will then approach from the subjects head end and lift the arm into a straight arm bar and by applying the wrist lock by turning the subjects palm downwards and placing their hand on the back of the subjects hand. The offi cers foot nearest the subjects body is placed under the subjects collar bone, the shin just resting lightly on the subjects shoulder blade. The offi cers outside knee rests on the fl oor next to the subjects shoulder. The offi cer controls the arm by squeezing the subjects arm between their legs. The offi cer pulls the subjects arm as close into his / her chest and leans back slightly.

Alternatively the offi cer may use their outside arm to lock the subjects arm close into their body.


The leg pin

The leg pin technique is used to control the legs of a subject whilst in the prone position.

Technique application

Offi cers approach the subject from the fi ve or seven o’clock position, ensuring that they stay away from the feet. The offi cers move in and apply a knee strike to the subjects glutes area. The offi cers then place their inside knee on the inside of the subjects leg and their foot on the outside of the subjects leg. They then sit back trapping the subjects leg between their leg and the fl oor. The offi cers move back until they are sitting on the subjects lower leg area. They clamp the subjects legs between their knees and sit back. Remember to try and ensure that the subjects toes are turned either inwards or outwards. This will avoid injury to the Achilles tendon.


Directing to prone

It may be that offi cers are unable to apply a transport wristlock. Under these circumstances it may still be possible to direct the subject to prone.

The straight arm bar

The arm bar has been widely used by offi cers to direct subjects to prone and establish control. Whilst it is most commonly used from the escort position during an attempt to gain control or during, an escalation of resistance, it is possible to apply this technique from other positions.

Technique application – circular technique

Offi cer approaches and establishes contact with escort position. Subject resists by locking his arm straight. Offi cer responds with knee strike to weaken subject’s motor action. Offi cer then moves the subject’s controlled hand onto his outside hip, turning the subject’s palm upwards. At the same time the offi cer places his inside hand above the subject’s elbow to lock the arm The offi cer then steps to the outside, whilst applying pressure downwards on the subject’s arm, giving loud repetitive verbal commands. The subject is directed to the fl oor with the arm still locked. The offi cer is kneeling at the side of the subject. The offi cer then swivels, placing the outside leg, on the subject’s shoulder, at the same time locking the arm. This ground pin is suitable for handcuffi ng.

There may be occasions when offi cers will fi nd themselves in situations where it is not applicable to use the above technique. They may fi nd themselves having to control a resistant subject in a small confi ned space. The following technique may be employed


Straight arm bar – forward technique

Offi cer approaches and establishes contact with escort position. Subject resists by locking his arm straight. Offi cer responds with knee strike to weaken subject’s motor action. The offi cer then moves directly forward whilst applying pressure to the back of the upper arm, directing the subject to prone to complete handcuffi ng

The pull down

The pull down technique is another method of directing a resistant subject to the prone position. However, this technique is extremely dynamic and could potentially cause injury.

The pull down technique

The subject offers straight arm resistance. The offi cer responds by stepping directly in front of the subject whilst still holding on to the subjects wrist. The offi cer simultaneously brings the subjects wrist up as high as they can before pulling sharply down on the wrist whilst drag stepping away. The offi cer utilises loud verbal commands instructing the subject to get on the ground. The offi cer then follows up with the handcuffi ng technique.

Remember you may decide not to employ the above techniques due to subject behaviour or impact factors. You may strike to disengage and escalate, or you can at any point during the techniques disengage and escalate.


Control techniques – overall considerations

Controlling a resistant subject is a diffi cult skill. Whilst the techniques in this section have been included because of their ease and effectiveness, it is recognised there are many impact factors which may make control diffi cult or impossible to achieve. Disparity in size and strength is a major such factor.

Control techniques are primary control skills within the Confl ict Management Model.

Offi cers can correctly escalate their use of force as per that model where:

1. primary control skills have been attempted and proved ineffective2. the offi cer considers (because of impact factors) that such techniques would be ineffective

or inappropriate in the circumstances.

Alcohol and drugsOffi cers should be aware that both alcohol and drugs artifi cially raise a subject’s tolerance to pain.

Under such circumstances control techniques can be applied to the point of causing fracture without achieving control.

Where an offi cer is attempting such control techniques and fi nds them ineffective the proper course of action would be to disengage and/or escalate to defensive tactics in the Confl ict Management Model.

Loud repetitive verbal commands should be used where time and circumstances permit.

Ground fi ghtingPolice offi cers will sometimes fi nd themselves in a situation in which the offender is dominating. There is a very real fear in the back of every offi cer’s mind of being kicked, thrown or tackled to the ground.

This is not an unreasonable fear, for it happens quite often.

Whilst the situation may appear to be one in which there is no tactical advantage to be gained, there are, in fact, useful tactical options.

Wrestling and grappling on the ground is not recommended. Unless the offi cer is highly skilled and/or has considerable body strength, ground fi ghting should be avoided.

If an offi cer is grounded with the subject and fi nds him/herself in a position of control over the subject, there should be loud verbal commands - “STOP FIGHTING” or “STOP RESISTING”. Handcuffs should be applied before allowing the subject to regain his/her feet.

Offi cer grounded/subject standing

If an offi cer is grounded and is not in a position of control the use of the legs is imperative.

Where the subject is still standing the offi cer should rotate on to their weak side so that their legs face the subject, utilising kicks to the shins, knees or groin should the subject advance.


Offi cers should raise their arms as shown to protect their head. The offi cer should strike until he/she has an opportunity to get up from the fl oor. As the offi cer gets up from the fl oor he/she should keep their hands out in front to protect and strike if needed. Once on their feet the offi cer should disengage, escalate and re-establish a safe reactionary gap.

Offi cer grounded/subject grounded

As said previously in this document this is a highly dangerous situation for any offi cer. In this situation the offi cer should use multiple strikes to distract the subject. When distracted the offi cer should bring up both knees to the chest and strike out utilising the feet.

Once on their feet the offi cer should disengage, escalate and re-establish a safe reactionary gap.


Medical conditionsPositional Asphyxia

Where prisoners offer resistance to Police Offi cers and are restrained, there is always a risk of injury to both parties. The Defensive Tactics training package attempts to minimise this risk, through identifying target areas that have low potential for injury, whilst at the same time giving the potential for establishing control.

There is a further risk to prisoners, which has only come to light in the recent past both in the UK and abroad. Research now indicates that there is a phenomenon known as Positional Asphyxia.

This is defi ned as :

‘Occurring when the position of the body interferes with respiration, resulting in asphyxia.’ (REAY 1992)

This has been addressed in the Northamptonshire Training Package through teaching a specifi c method of ground pin which keeps weight off a prisoner’s back as much as is possible and in the handcuffi ng guidelines :

1. The ground pin is executed, following a take-down, by laying the shin of the offi cer’s inside leg on the prisoner’s shoulder, with the outside knee resting on the fl oor. The prisoner’s arm is held in a straight arm-bar. Handcuffi ng is to be completed as rapidly as possible.

2. Rule 14 in the Handcuffi ng Manual indicates, when handcuffi ng is completed a prisoner must be re-positioned, from the prone face-down position, as soon as possible - sitting, kneeling or standing the prisoner up are acceptable. When handcuffi ng is completed offi cers must not continue to apply pressure to the prisoner’s shoulder, in the prone face-down position. Prisoners must not be transported in the prone face-down position.

Risks and symptoms

Positional Asphyxia is likely to occur when :

• a subject is in a position that interferes with inhalation and/or exhalation and cannot escape that position.

This can occur extremely rapidly - indeed there are documented cases of this happening within 3 to 7 minutes. In such cases the post-mortems have failed to identify any anatomical or toxicological fi ndings suffi cient to explain the death.

Risk factors

The following are factors which have been shown to contribute to this phenomenon:

• subject’s body position results in partial or complete airway constriction• alcohol or drug intoxication (the major risk factor)• inability to escape position• normally prone• obesity (particularly large ‘beer bellies’)• restraints - particularly where feet are secured to hands• stress• respiratory muscle fatigue, related to prior violent muscular activity (such as fi ghting with

Police Offi cers)


Signs & symptoms

Offi cers should pay attention where they recognise the following symptoms, taking immediate action to remedy the symptoms and apply fi rst aid:

• body position restricted to prone face down• Cyanosis• gurgling/gasping sounds• an active prisoner suddenly changes to passive - loud/violent to quiet/tranquil• panic• verbalising he/she can’t breath

Transportation

1. The condition of the prisoner should be checked prior to transportation2. Where possible the prisoner should be monitored during transportation3. The prisoner must not be transported in the prone face-down position4. The condition of the prisoner should be checked following transportation

Custody

The arresting offi cer will inform the custody offi cer of the nature and circumstances surrounding the arrest.

The arresting offi cer will inform the custody offi cer of the restraint skills and equipment used to facilitate this (handcuffs) and mode of transport.

The custody offi cer

1. Note the condition of the prisoner2. Enquire about substance/alcohol abuse3. Observe any signs of toxicity4. Summon the Police Surgeon if the Custody Offi cer considers the prisoner is suffering

positional asphyxia5. Document

There have been tragic circumstances that have led to in-custody deaths following the onset of Positional Asphyxia. Early recognition of risk factors, signs and symptoms, coupled with the Defensive Tactics Techniques and training should help to signifi cantly reduce the chances of this occurring within our Force.

Acute Behavioural Disorder (ABD)

What is ABD?

In simple terms this is when a person exhibits violent behaviour in a bizarre and manic way rather than just being simply violent.

Why is a person suffering from ABD of particular concern?

Persons suffering from acute behavioural disorder can die suddenly during, or shortly after, a violent struggle while at hospital or in custody.

How is it caused?

By drug intoxication, alcohol intoxication or psychiatric illness, or a combination of these. Cocaine is the best known cause of drug induced acute behavioural disorder but LSD or Heroin are equally likely to cause it.


Signs and symptoms?

• They will be abnormally strong• They will be abnormally tolerant to pain• Incapacitant sprays may not work on them• Their skin may be extremely hot to the touch• They may be hallucinating, hiding behind objects, running around or pulling their clothes

off. They may suddenly become subdued or even collapse after a bout of extreme violence.• The may remove clothing or be completely naked

How do you control a subject suffering from ABD?

This will always be very diffi cult. You will probably have to place them face down on the ground in order to handcuff them safely. You already know about the dangers of positional asphyxia. The risk of positional asphyxia affecting a person who is suffering from ABD is far greater than for a normal violent person.

They will be very diffi cult to control and may continue to fi ght, even though they are handcuffed. Once they are handcuffed do not hold them face down. Get them onto their sides or into a sitting, kneeling or standing position as soon as it is safe to do so. They may continue to kick out at you. However, you must get them off their stomachs in some way or other as soon as you can.

Once they have been controlled, what should be done ?

They may continue to be extremely violent in spite of the use of handcuffs, sprays or batons. Such bizarre, exhaustive and persistent violent resistance is a classic indication of an acute behavioural disorder case. They must be monitored carefully as they could collapse and die at any time. Treat them as a Medical Emergency. Have them examined at hospital - even if they suddenly calm down before you get there. If you think you are dealing with a person who is suffering from ABD then get them checked out at hospital there is no harm done if they turn out to be fi ne. They can collapse very suddenly and attempts to resuscitate them usually fail.

You may have experienced dealing with violent subjects who might have been in suffering from ABD. The likelihood of police offi cers encountering people in such a violent delirium state is rare but is defi nitely on the increase.


ConclusionNo-one can guarantee offi cer safety but by providing skills which can be easily and quickly used the chances of offi cers establishing control effectively and speedily is greatly enhanced.

The techniques within this document have been chosen, as a result of research and experience, because they are:

• effective• quickly learned• defensible in terms of injury potential• fl exible

Whilst these are recommended techniques it is recognised that offi cers operate in a volatile and rapidly evolving environment, sometimes in the face of extreme violence and hostility.

If an offi cer chooses to use a technique not contained within this system it should not automatically be regarded as unacceptable or improper.

An offi cers use of any technique should be judged on whether or not it is reasonable under the circumstances.

By adopting the Confl ict Management Model, offi cers are given substantial guidance as to what may be reasonable.

Material contained within this system has been researched tactically, legally and medically, to ensure not only maximum potential for safety and effectiveness in the operational fi eld but also for a vigorous defence of offi cers in the civil and criminal court arena.




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CONFLICT MANAGEMENT


PAVA

3-1DEFENSIVE TACTICS TRAININGPAVA

ContentsIntroduction ........................................................................................... 3-2Technical data – Nonivamide .................................................................... 3-2

Delivery system .............................................................................. 3-2Replacement .................................................................................. 3-2

Physiological effects of Nonivamide ........................................................... 3-3Failure of Nonivamide to achieve desired effect ........................................... 3-4General guidelines for the use of incapacitants ............................................ 3-4

Use on persons suffering mental health problems ................................ 3-5Training issues ................................................................................ 3-5Aftercare ....................................................................................... 3-6When to use – use of force context ................................................... 3-7


Policy use of PAVA .................................................................................. 3-12Use of force reporting .............................................................................. 3-12Nonivamide – facts ................................................................................. 3-13Scoop and shoot holder ........................................................................... 3-14Proper grip ............................................................................................ 3-14Defensive position .................................................................................. 3-15Reactionary gap ..................................................................................... 3-15Drawing techniques................................................................................. 3-16

Strong side draw ............................................................................ 3-16Weak side draw .............................................................................. 3-17

Spraying techniques ................................................................................ 3-18Single aggressor ............................................................................. 3-18Multiple aggressors ......................................................................... 3-18Dynamic attack .............................................................................. 3-19One offi cer – subject grounded ......................................................... 3-20One offi cer – subject and offi cer standing ........................................... 3-20One offi cer - offi cer grounded/offender standing ................................. 3-21Two offi cers – subject grounded ........................................................ 3-22Two offi cers – subject standing ......................................................... 3-23

3-2 DEFENSIVE TACTICS TRAININGPAVA

IntroductionThe use of chemical agents has been around since the Chinese threw peppers and other spices at their enemies over 2,500 years ago.

Chemical agents in aerosol form have been in use by police agencies world-wide for many years. In 1976 a Mr Gardner Whitcombe in the US pioneered the use of Oleoresin Capsicum. The use of OC has been adopted by many police agencies throughout the world, most notably in the USA and Canada.

In August of 1996, following successful trials in 16 Forces in England and Wales, the Home Secretary announced support for the introduction of CS as a suitable aerosol incapacitant for use by the U.K. Police Service.

Other Police Forces throughout Europe are also using incapacitants in the form of CS irritant sprays and now synthetic pepper (PAVA), which is also known as Nonivamide.

In an increasingly violent society offi cers must have reasonable and effective use of force options. More important is the confi dence in knowing that the product works on a wide variety of subjects. In many cases persons who have not been controlled by the use of a baton have been successfully controlled with aerosol incapacitant sprays. Additionally Police Departments have reported fewer complaints of excessive force and fewer injuries to both offi cers and prisoners.

Technical data – NonivamidePerlagonic Acid Vanillylamide (Nonivamide) is a synthetic equivalent of Capsaicin, one of the active ingredients in natural Pepper Sprays. Nonivamide has been produced for a great many years, mainly as a food additive to provide fl avouring. It is also produced for pharmaceutical purposes.

The Nonivamide contained in the canister is 96% pure in a concentration of 0.3%. It is dissolved in a solvent made up of a 72% Propylene glycol, 25% water, and 2.7% Ethanol. The glycol gel increases the droplet size which enables the particles to drop to the ground, therefore reducing cross contamination. The propellant is Nitrogen.

Delivery system

The delivery system is based on the design of the canister and degree of pressurisation.

This will affect the amount of agent discharged, the range and the degree of coverage.

Incapacitant sprays are generally dispersed in the following patterns:

1. a streamer spray - which is a narrow type, similar to a water pistol.2. a cone spray - which is designed to engulf the subject’s face, affecting the eyes, nose, lips,

mouth and respiratory system.3. a splatter spray – which is a mixture of the stream and cone.

Replacement

The unit will be replaced following an operational use.

Partially used canisters can be used for training, if not required for Court purposes.


Physiological effects of NonivamideA half second burst of incapacitant into the face will affect 3 major areas.

1. the eyes2. the respiratory system (if inhaled)3. the skin

The effects may be instantaneous or delayed (for up to 20 seconds).

The eyes

A spray into the face will cause dilation of the capillaries and instant closing of the eyes. Effects can range from severe twitching or spasmodic contraction of the eyelids to involuntary closing of the eyes.

The eyes may remain shut for up to 30 minutes.

People wearing glasses or contact lenses will be equally affected. Following exposure contact lenses should be removed for faster recovery. For effective incapacitation the spray must enter the eyes.

The respiratory system

If the Nonivamide is inhaled it produces either respiratory infl ammation which, in turn, produces uncontrollable coughing and shortness of breath. The infl ammation of mucous membranes produces diffi culty in breathing through the nose. With the design of the canister and the way in which the agent is expelled from the canister it is highly unlikely that Nonivamide will be inhaled.

The skin

The face will feel hot, as will the membranes inside the nose and mouth.

Depending on the individual’s complexion, skin colour may range from slight discolouration to a bright red. The subject’s lips and eyelids may become slightly swollen.

Exposure to fresh, moving, air will normally result in a signifi cant recovery from the effects within 15 minutes.

Common physiological diversions

As well as causing the aforementioned effects other common symptoms may also occur, including:

• moving hands to face - dropping any items held.• legs become weak - may drop to knees.• upper torso bends forward.• body shakes.• impaired hearing - may not hear offi cer.• muscles tense - may not respond immediately to commands.

After Effects

There is no evidence of lasting side effects or after effects.

Full recovery is normally achieved within 30 to 45 minutes of spraying.


Failure of Nonivamide to achieve desired effectPost implementation studies from other countries show a failure rate where the incapacitants do not produce the desired effects. There is the potential that Nonivamide will not achieve the desired results.

Such failures have occurred on three categories of subject:

1. persons suffering serious mental impairment.2. persons suffering the effects of drink or drugs.3. persons with a positive mental mindset/goal.

Feedback from the UK trials showed that the incapacitant worked in four out of fi ve cases. Offi cers indicated a failure of the product where the subject(s) had imbibed drugs.

The use of an aerosol incapacitant should not be viewed as a panacea and will not work in all cases.

Offi cers must not rely on Nonivamide to the exclusion of other control tactics. There is evidence that subjects may actually become more aggressive following the use of an incapacitant spray.

Under such circumstances offi cers may need to use defensive tactics, with or without batons, to establish control.

General guidelines for the use of incapacitantsThe Nonivamide is dispensed from a hand-held aerosol canister. The maximum effective ranges of these differ between eight and fourteen feet, depending on the device, delivery system and manufacturer.

Shake

It is important to shake the canister periodically (once a day) to facilitate suspension within the carrier.

Distance

These devices should not be used at less than 3 feet unless the nature of the risk to the offi cer is such that this cannot be avoided (this is due to the possibility of eye damage if used at close range). In such cases an offi cer must be prepared to justify both their use and their decision to use at such a distance.

Spray downwind

Where possible offi cers should attempt to spray downwind. Spraying upwind may cause a blow back giving rise to cross contamination.

In still air

Offi cers should use 2 x ½ second bursts, with the recommended spraying distance being 4 to 6 feet. They should repeat this technique if the fi rst application is unsuccessful. If the desired effect is not then achieved offi cers should consider other use of force options.

In moving air

A 1-second burst may be necessary.

When facing multiple aggressors offi cers should use a side-to-side arm motion with a continuous burst.


Application

The spray should be aimed directly at the subject’s face. It must enter the subject’s eyes for effect.

Offi cers must stop spraying when the attacker’s resistance ceases.

Once the offi cer has sprayed a subject they should move (preferably sideways). Following a short pause (5 to 10 seconds) they should then move to establish control.

Possession off duty

Aerosol incapacitants are classifi ed as prohibited weapons by virtue of Sec. 5 Firearms Act 1968. Police offi cers, whilst acting in their capacity as such, are exempt from the requirements of the legislation and do not need any additional authority to possess Nonivamide spray. Offi cers can, therefore, have lawful possession of the spray whilst off duty, provided that this is necessary for the purposes of police duty. Chief Offi cers may wish to consider the need for such possession in their own force area and introduce a system for authorising the same and for ensuring the safe custody of devices stored temporarily away from the police premises.

Use on a person in charge of a motor vehicle

Due to the effects of the spray the decision to use it on a person in charge of, or control of, a motor vehicle must be carefully considered.

Use on persons suffering mental health problems

Occasions will arise when it is necessary to use Nonivamide on persons whose violent behaviour is due to a mental health problem. In such cases, when it is possible to discuss use of force options with health care professionals present at the scene, this should be considered. In pre-planned joint activities such discussions could form part of the briefi ng for the event – and the risk assessment process. Consultation with friends, relatives, etc. who are likely to know the person well may also assist in deciding on the most appropriate use of force response.

The fi nal decision to use the spray in these circumstances will rest with the offi cer concerned. Chief Offi cers are encouraged to consider local protocols or memoranda of understanding with health care professionals.

Training issues

The aerosol incapacitant should be issued only to those offi cers who have been trained and certifi ed in its use by a certifi ed instructor. Ideally training in the use of aerosol incapacitant should be incorporated within the general offi cer safety training which includes the use of batons, handcuffs, self-defence techniques and training in confl ict management. Offi cers authorised to use an aerosol incapacitant should be re-certifi ed in its use in line with the training guidelines.

Offi cers should ensure that the canister is kept clean and will be personally responsible for its safekeeping. They should follow the manufacturer’s guidelines for checking the content of the canister before commencing patrol.

Chief Offi cers in the individual forces should establish guidelines on the extent and appropriateness of carriage.

It is essential that offi cers are aware of the physical and psychological effects of Nonivamide. Within the training programme opportunity should be provided for offi cers to be exposed to Nonivamide. Exposure of this nature will provide offi cers with an appreciation of the effects on an offender and may assist offi cers who are inadvertently exposed to Nonivamide during a confrontation to continue to perform effectively or to take appropriate action.

Offi cers who, due to a known medical condition, are concerned about being exposed to Nonivamide


should be advised to consult their force medical or occupational health offi cer before being exposed.

Aerosol incapacitants should only be carried in a suitable pouch or belt clip. The retention system should provide:

• protection for the canister• for simple and quick release of the canister by the offi cer• protection against snatch by a would-be attacker

The use of an aerosol incapacitant may be appropriate against:

1. Those offering a level of violence which cannot be appropriately dealt with by lower levels of force

2. Violent offenders, other than those armed with fi rearms or similar remote injury weapons, where failure to induce ‘immediate’ incapacitation would increase the risks to all present.

Aftercare

• It is imperative that, once the subject is properly restrained, the offi cer provides verbal reassurance as to the temporary effects of Nonivamide and instructs the subject to breathe normally. This will aid recovery and prevent hyperventilation.

• The person who has been sprayed should be removed to an uncontaminated area where they can be exposed to cool fresh air, facing into the wind if possible.

• On arrival at the police station they may be allowed cool water to rinse their face. They should be encouraged to open their eyes in cool water if their eyes have not already recovered of their own accord. They should be told not to rub their faces and eyes and cuffi ng all sprayed subjects with their hands to the rear will prevent this from happening.

• All symptoms should disappear within 30 to 45 minutes with no after effects.• If the symptoms persist beyond 45 minutes additional medical attention will be provided.

This may include calling a medical practitioner or the conveyance of the subject to hospital.• Every time Nonivamide is used offi cers will complete a use of force report.• With a non-co-operative prisoner after-care with water should still be offered However if it

is felt that resistance from such a person would compromise offi cer safety they should be placed in a cell. After care should be offered again at a later time.

• Such procedures will be documented in the prisoner’s custody record.• If any adverse reactions are observed immediate medical assistance should be obtained.

It is essential that the subject’s breathing is monitored. If the subject is having diffi culty resuming normal breathing they should be taken immediately to the nearest hospital.

• It is essential that the restraint methods used after a person has been sprayed, and the physical position they are placed in, do not adversely affect breathing. Prisoners must not be left in, or transported in, a prone face-down position. The subject should be carefully monitored from the time of arrest, during transportation and whilst in custody until the effects of Nonivamide have worn off.

• This is especially important in monitoring the recovery of subjects who are obese or are known to be under the infl uence of drugs and/or alcohol. It is also important to pay particular attention to persons on whom the use of Nonivamide appeared to be ineffective and those exhibiting bizarre/violent behaviour or experiencing breathing diffi culties.

• Subjects who have been sprayed should be asked if they wear contact lenses. People wearing contact lenses may experience greater discomfort. They should be permitted to remove their lenses at the earliest opportunity. On no account should a police offi cer attempt to remove contact lenses from another person. This should only be done by the individual, an optician or a medical practitioner.

• Close monitoring of a subject throughout the recovery period is of utmost importance. If the prisoner is detained in a cell they should be subject to the same cell supervision provided for prisoners who have consumed alcohol or drugs. If there are any signs of adverse or unusual reactions then medical attention should be provided immediately. It is essential that the subjects’ breathing be monitored. If the subject is having diffi culty resuming normal breathing the provision of medical assistance must be given precedence over conveying the subject to the police station.


When to use – use of force context

Because there is a low injury risk incapacitants may be used, in line with the Confl ict Management Model, before defensive tactics (blocks and strikes).

Before offi cers can understand where the use of an incapacitant fi ts into their options they must have an understanding of the Confl ict Management Model.

Incapacitant sprays should not be seen as a replacement for other force options.

Whilst it is not possible to list every situation or type of offender against whom incapacitant sprays can be used, by reference to the Confl ict Management Model, offi cers can make judgements as to their reasonable and proportionate use.










ConstantCycle






Threat Assessment




Compliance




Passive resistance


Active resistance














Powers and Policies

Use of force Policy





Powers
















Article 2






Tactical Options



Offi cer presence








Defensive Tactics



Less Lethal Options


Lethal/Deadly Force


Actions



Policy use of PAVAAerosol Incapacitants may be used as a response option when an offi cer fi nds it necessary to

defend him/herself or othersor

effect arrestor

prevent the commission of an offence when lower levels of force have been ineffectiveor

the offi cer considers lower levels of force would be ineffective, inappropriate or disproportionate in the circumstances.

Such use of an incapacitant must be reported on the relevant use of force report form and must include follow-up and monitoring procedures.

Only those offi cers trained and certifi ed in its use will be allowed to carry and use aerosol incapacitants.

Use of force reportingThis section offers guidelines on documenting use of force.

The use of an Aerosol Incapacitant is a use of Force and, as such, will be reported using the Use of Force Report Form.

In making statements the offi cer’s arrival and approach are essential elements of this reporting process. Offi cers should identify themselves to establish knowledge on the part of the offender. If other offi cers are present this should also be noted.

On approach offi cers should indicate what they observed and what directions they gave the offender and any responses.

The offi cer should indicate the subject’s actions. Verbal and non-verbal signals, especially those indicating hostility, are important. A note should be made of the subject’s responses to any physical control techniques.

The offi cer’s own actions should also be documented, indicating which type(s) of control methods were used in response to the subject’s actions. Any de-escalation techniques should also be recorded.


Where an incapacitant is used it is extremely important to document follow-up procedure and aftercare, as this has been the source of complaint and litigation.

As resistance is also encountered during transportation, both the time taken and mode of transport should be documented.

The report should also give details of any medical complications after spraying, regardless of whether there is evidence of a direct link to the use of PAVA.

If transported to a hospital, the location should also be shown.

Nonivamide – factsAlso called PAVA

Brand name = CapTor 2

Also called Nonivamide

Weight – full = 100 - 104gms.

Weight –empty = 45 gms.

Capacity = 10 x 1 second bursts

Active ingredient = 0.3% Nonivamide

Propylene glycol gel 72%

Water 25%

Ethanol 2.7%

Propellant – Nitrogen

Effective range 8 to 21 feet

Desirable range 4 to 6 feet

Effectiveness time instantaneous – 20 seconds


Scoop and shoot holderThe unit is carried on the strong side of the utility vest

The lanyard is attached to two fi xed points, one on the base of the pot and one to the eyelet on the utility vest. This will ensure that the canister remains in contact with the offi cers vest at all times. The nozzle of the canister is facing forwards.

Proper gripWhilst it is possible to spray with index fi nger or thumb on the actuator button it is recommended that the thumb is used.

Research proves it to be more accurate and can be used from a defensive position held at chest or waist level.

The unit should be held with four fi ngers, with the thumb on the actuator button.

Offi cers should always try to use their strong hand to spray. It is appreciated that there may be occasions where circumstances dictate otherwise.


Defensive positionOffi cers should approach an aggressor from a position on the outside of that person’s fi ghting arc. This will give offi cers a slight advantage in the event of the subject launching an assault.

The offi cer should adopt a stance with their strong leg back, feet about shoulder width with knees slightly bent. Weight should be evenly distributed between the legs.

The strong hand should be holding the unit at chest/eye level with the weak hand guarding to the front of the body.

Defensive position high profi le

Alternatively the unit can be held at waist level.

Defensive position low profi le

Reactionary gapOffi cers must remember to maintain a gap of 4 to 6 feet from a suspect. This maximises offi cer safety and minimises the possibility of a suspect’s attempts to take the unit from the offi cer.


Drawing techniquesThere are two drawing techniques

Strong side draw

The offi cer draws the unit from the strong side utilising the strong hand, whilst assuming a defensive stance.


Weak side draw

There may be occasions where the offi cer’s strong hand is engaged in defending him/her self. In this incidence the offi cer reaches across her body with his/her weak hand, drawing the unit and, at the same time, assuming a defensive stance.


Spraying techniquesThere are two spraying techniques:

Single aggressor

In dealing with a single aggressor the offi cer would spray directly into the face of the subject. This is designed to achieve control of the individual. Offi cers should continue to use loud verbal commands - “NO” - “STOP” - ‘GET BACK”.

Multiple aggressors

For multiple aggressors the offi cer would utilise a continuous spraying action in a side to side to motion across the front of their body.

Offi cers should continue to use loud verbal commands – “NO” – “STOP” – ‘GET BACK”.


Dynamic attack

Offi cers may fi nd it necessary to defend themselves from a dynamic attack from a resistant subject. In this circumstance the offi cer may fi nd it necessary to utilise an unarmed defensive tactic such as a palm heel strike to ensure that they have time and distance to draw their spray. The offi cer utilises a defensive push with their weak hand whilst simultaneously drawing their spray with their strong hand.

Once the offi cer has drawn his/her spray he/she will spray directly into the face of the resistant subject to gain control.

On spraying the offi cer should move laterally and wait for a few seconds before approaching the subject. The offi cer should continue to use appropriate verbal commands, spray again, if necessary, and use follow-up control skills.


One offi cer – subject grounded

Offi cer is holding subject on the ground and encounters resistance.

Offi cer disengages, draws unit, assumes defensive stance and sprays the aggressor .

Offi cer should continue to use appropriate verbal commands, spray again, if necessary, and use follow- up control skills.

One offi cer – subject and offi cer standing

Offi cer is attempting control technique and meets resistance.


Offi cer uses defensive push to disengage, assumes defensive stance and sprays the aggressor.

Offi cer should then use loud verbal commands “STOP RESISTING” “GET BACK” “GET DOWN” or spray again, if necessary, and move. Use appropriate follow-up control tactics or handcuffi ng.

One offi cer - offi cer grounded/offender standing

This technique can be used when an offi cer falls or is thrown or knocked to the ground.The offi cer should:

Roll onto his/her back with one or two feet up towards the aggressor.

Draw and spray the subject from the ground. The weak hand and the feet can be used to pivot or push away from the aggressor.

Regain footing and adopt a defensive stance.

Use loud verbal commands - “STOP” - “GET BACK” - “STOP RESISTING”.

Spray again, if necessary, and move. Use follow-up control tactics or handcuffi ng.


Two offi cers – subject grounded

Where two offi cers are present one should act as contact offi cer to control the subject. The other should act as cover.

The contact offi cer is attempting control of a prisoner and meets resistance. He /she shouts “Spray” and disengages.

Cover offi cer sprays offender and moves.

The contact offi cer then uses verbal commands and uses follow-up control or handcuffi ng.

Alternatively if the cover offi cer observes a danger to the contact offi cer he will shout “Spray” and immediately spray the aggressor. (Contact offi cer may receive spray). Under these circumstances the contact offi cer disengages if possible.


Two offi cers – subject standing

Contact offi cer is engaged with prisoner and meets resistance.

Cover offi cer observes danger, shouts “Spray” and sprays the prisoner (contact offi cer may receive spray). The contact offi cer should disengage if possible.

Alternatively where the contact offi cer perceives danger he/she immediately disengages and shouts “Spray”. The cover offi cer then sprays the prisoner.




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CONFLICT MANAGEMENT


Baton

4-1DEFENSIVE TACTICS TRAININGBaton

ContentsIntroduction ........................................................................................... 4-2Use of force - objective ............................................................................ 4-2

Use of auto lock baton - objective ..................................................... 4-2Auto lock baton – use of force context ............................................... 4-2


Tactical communications .......................................................................... 4-8Monadnock Auto lock baton ...................................................................... 4-9

Auto lock batons ............................................................................. 4-9Target areas - primary (green) ................................................................. 4-10Target areas - secondary (yellow) ............................................................. 4-11Target areas - fi nal (red) .......................................................................... 4-12Carrying the auto lock baton .................................................................... 4-13

Approach and tactical positioning ...................................................... 4-13Proxemics .............................................................................................. 4-14Stance .................................................................................................. 4-14

Non violent posture ......................................................................... 4-14Defensive stance ............................................................................ 4-14

Drawing the baton .................................................................................. 4-15Defensive position closed ................................................................. 4-15High profi le position ........................................................................ 4-15Defensive position low profi le ........................................................... 4-16Two handed carry ........................................................................... 4-16

Counterstrikes ........................................................................................ 4-17Forward circular strike ..................................................................... 4-17Reverse circular strike ..................................................................... 4-18Power strike ................................................................................... 4-19Front jab (two handed carry position) ................................................ 4-20Rear jab (two handed carry position) ................................................. 4-20Rib rub .......................................................................................... 4-21Rake ............................................................................................. 4-21

Baton retention ...................................................................................... 4-22Circular retention technique ............................................................. 4-22

Shin restraint ......................................................................................... 4-23Technique considerations ......................................................................... 4-25Follow up procedures .............................................................................. 4-25

4-2 DEFENSIVE TACTICS TRAININGBaton

IntroductionThe purpose of this document is to provide guidance, both in terms of policy on police use of force and proper application of that force, through the use of the auto-lock baton.

As well as offi cers being profi cient in baton techniques and tactics they must also be able to demonstrate an understanding of use of force context which will enable them to justify their actions.

The Police Service is now acting under more intense media scrutiny than at any time in its history. It is, therefore, paramount that professional training prepares offi cers to use force in a manner which allows them to protect themselves and achieve control whilst, at the same time, minimising injury potential to the offender.

This is not a simple balance to achieve but, through the use of tactical, legal and medical research, it is possible to provide such training.

This auto-lock baton system has been formulated with these facts in mind.

This manual is presented as a menu of methods and techniques from which offi cers may select those parts which they consider best suit their individual circumstances.

It is expected that the content of this manual will be regularly reviewed and amended in the light of feedback from the experience of operational offi cers.

Use of force - objectiveThe objective of Police Use of Force is to maintain the safety of Offi cers, innocent people and the subject (where practicable) by establishing control.

Use of auto lock baton - objective

The objective of Police Use of an Auto lock Baton is to gain control of a non compliant or resistive subject by striking.

It is never used to punish or intentionally cause permanent injury.

Auto lock baton – use of force context

The use of the Auto lock Baton would be supported when lower levels of force have been ineffective

OR

are judged by the offi cer to be inappropriate or disproportionate

AND

the use of higher levels of force would not be justifi ed, appropriate or proportionate.










ConstantCycle






Threat Assessment




Compliance




Passive resistance


Active resistance














Powers and Policies

Use of force Policy





Powers
















Article 2






Tactical Options



Offi cer presence








Defensive Tactics



Less Lethal Options


Lethal/Deadly Force


Actions




Tactical communicationsCommunication skills are an integral part of any defensive tactics system, with experts worldwide considering that in excess of 90% of incidents of physical violence could be avoided with good tactical communications skills.

Such skills are dealt with in-depth in a separate document but this document includes advice for offi cers where violence is imminent.

Crisis communication skills should be viewed from three perspectives:

1. prior to physical engagement2. during the encounter3. following the incident with control achieved

1. Prior to the encounter

• Use quiet tones.• Avoid remarks of a threatening or intimidatory nature.• Use simple language with short phrases as in a highly charged situation people will

fail to understand complicated messages.• Listen actively to what the other person is saying in an attempt to identify the problem.• As an assault appears imminent change dialogue to shorter one or two word phrases

“Stop – Get back – Stay back”.• Volume should increase dramatically to add impact to the message.• Should the offi cer need to employ physical techniques following such verbal messages

it will make defence of those actions easier to defend in the courtroom arena.• Witness perception is also enhanced, with there being a clear indication to persons

present that offi cers were attempting to resolve the situation without physical force.

2. During the encounter

• Physical actions must obviously take priority but it may be possible to again give simple clear messages - “Stop fi ghting” ‘Stop resisting” ‘Stop kicking”.

• This is again advantageous in terms of witness perception and court defensibility.• It is most important, at this stage, that messages are simple, with research showing

that complicated verbal messages cause the sender to more than double physical reaction time.

3. Following the encounter with control achieved

• At this stage it is important to show an ability to de-escalate, with a lowering of volume and an attempt to reassure the offender, particularly if they have been controlled to a prone position or have suffered pain.

• Phrases such as “Relax it’s over” or “Calm down, stop struggling”.• Information as to your next steps is also in order - such as “I’m now going to handcuff

you” or “I’m going to stand you up”.• Such information gives the prisoner the chance to comply with or assist offi cers in

their actions.• Offi cers should never underestimate the power of good tactical communications.

Experience has shown that sometimes what the offi cer says not what they do make the difference between conviction and acquittal in the legal process.


Monadnock Auto lock batonAuto lock batons

Materials Alloy

Length 22 inches in length

Nomenclature Collapsing button Hindi cap Grip section Mid section Striking section Power tip

Operation Auto lock Locks by extending the arm and fl icking wrist Uses ball bearings to lock the sections into place Closure by depressing the collapsing button and applying pressure to the

power tip.

Power tip

Striking section

Mid section

Grip section

Hindi cap

Collapsing button


Target areas - primary (green)

These are chosen as primary target areas due to their low injury potential.

By striking such areas offi cers are likely to cause motor dysfunction and bruising.

Targets

• Legs All areas of the leg with the exception of the knee and ankle.• Arms The hands, forearm and the upper arm.• Abdomen Lower Abdomen.• Buttocks

Expected medical implications

• Low probability of causing permanent injury.• Transitory bruising of target area.• Transitory motor dysfunction.


Target areas - secondary (yellow)

These consist mainly of bones and joints, but also include other vulnerable areas

They have a higher probability of impeding an offender but also a higher injury potential, with the possibility of causing fractures and/or dislocation. Offi cers must justify secondary target area selection as per the Confl ict Management Model.

Targets

• Legs Knees, Ankles• Arms and Upper Torso Wrist, Elbow, Ribs, Upper Abdomen, Groin Expected medical implications

• Bone fracture• Dislocation• Soft tissue damage


Target areas - fi nal (red)

These are target areas to avoid, except as a last resort, in order to stop an attack carrying a serious or deadly threat.

These areas carry with them a high probability of causing serious bodily harm or death.

Targets

• Head • Neck • Spine • Coccyx • Kidneys • Solar plexus • Sternum

Offi cers must be prepared to justify choosing such targets as per the Confl ict Management Model.


Carrying the auto lock batonThe Auto lock baton is worn on the offi cer’s weak side.

Approach and tactical positioning

The way in which offi cers approach a person and their relative position is of critical importance in reducing the possibility of assault or injury to the offi cer.

Offi cers can adopt a position and approach which allows them a tactical advantage without making other persons feel threatened or uncomfortable.

Tactical positioning diagram


In referring to the diagram above note the shaded area immediately in front of the person. This shows the ‘fi ghting arc’ - a 180° arc in front of the body in which people have a high degree of natural fi ghting skill. As a result most resistance occurs within that arc.

When offi cers are approaching or attempting to arrest a violent offender they should remain aware of this and stay on the outside of the arc.

The optimum approach position is diagonally off one of the prisoner’s shoulders. This will allow this offi cer to adopt the escort position on fi rst contact.


ProxemicsOffi cers should remain aware of the distance between themselves and a potential aggressor.

A reactionary gap of less than 6 feet makes it extremely diffi cult to defend against a spontaneous assault. Tests have shown that a gap of 12 feet can be covered in less than one second.

By using good approach and position, combined with tactical communications skills, offi cers can maintain this reactionary gap without alienating people.

This gap should be penetrated on the offi cer’s terms with a decision to breach that distance to effect arrest or achieve control.

StanceNon violent posture

• Offi cer draws their strong leg back• Feet shoulder width apart• Knees slightly bent• Weight evenly distributed• Hands above the waist• Body slightly bladed

Defensive stance

• Offi cer draws strong leg back• Feet are shoulder width apart• Weight evenly distributed• Arms above the waist, palm outwards • Body bladed• Elbows bent, weak side arm forwards, strong arm

closest to the body


Drawing the batonDefensive position closed

Baton is drawn utilising the strong hand executing a cross draw. Offi cer reaches across his/ her body releases the Velcro and press-stud and grips the grip section of the baton in the strong hand. The baton is then drawn and placed just in front of the offi cer’s hip with the power tip pointing upwards and the Hindi cap pointing towards the fl oor.

High profi le position

The offi cer reaches across his/her body and draws the baton out of the holder. Extend the arm down at the side of the body and fl ick the wrist to extend the baton. The offi cer then places the baton on the outside of the strong arm, with the mid section and striking section of the baton resting just above the elbow with the Hindi cap pointing towards the belt buckle. The offi cer keeps the weak hand up and out in front.


Defensive position low profi le Offi cer draws baton and assumes low profi le defensive position.

The low profi le defensive position is a combination of defensive stance and presentation of the baton.

In the low profi le defensive position the baton is held vertically at the rear of the strong leg.

In the defensive stance and defensive position the offi cer always utilises the weak hand by raising it in front of the body, palm outwards in a good tactical position.

Again the offi cer will use appropriate tactical communications.

Two handed carry

The two handed carry may be adopted if the offi cer is a confi ned space. To adopt this method of carry the offi cer utilises his/her strong hand in the normal grip position and also the weak hand, which grips the striking section of the baton approximately 2-3 inches from the end, with the palm facing downwards. The thumb wraps around the baton to secure the hold.

This method of carry allows the offi cer to strike in a jabbing motion to the front or rear, utilising the power tip end or the Hindi Cap end of the baton.


CounterstrikesThere are six counterstrikes within this system:

• forward circular strike• reverse circular strike• power strike• front jab• rear jab• rib rub• rake

Forward circular strike

The offi cer assumes the high profi le defensive position facing an attacker

The subject steps forward to attack the offi cer who responds by stepping across to his/her weak side with his/her weak leg and sweeping the baton across his body in a circular motion, striking the subject. Note the offi cer’s weak hand can be used to block.

The offi cer continues the sweeping motion and moves the baton to a position under his weak arm, ready for a follow-up technique

Note: In executing this strike the offi cer’s strong palm faces upwards through the sweep.


Reverse circular strike

The offi cer is in a position facing the subject, the baton positioned under his weak arm (possibly following a forward circular strike).

The subject steps forward to attack and the offi cer responds by stepping slightly towards his/her strong side with his/her weak leg, whilst sweeping the baton across the subject’s body back up to the high profi le position a circular motion, striking the offenders leg.

The offi cer must continue to utilise tactical communications.


Power strike

This is the most powerful of the strikes. Power is maximised by the offi cer gaining full hip rotation and allowing the baton to rest on the target for a split second.

The offi cer faces the subject in a high profi le defensive position.

The subject attacks the offi cer, who responds by stepping forward with the strong leg and rotating the hips forward in the direction of the baton. The offi cer then sweeps the baton out and down in front of her/his body, striking the target area.

The offi cer allows the baton to rest on the target for a split second to maximise energy transfer. The offi cer must utilise tactical communications.

The offi cer then re-assumes high profi le defensive position.


Front jab (two handed carry position)

The offi cer adopts a two hands carry position.

Following positive verbal commands for the subject to move back the offi cer executes a front jab, using a sharp thrusting motion with both hands causing the power tip of the baton to make contact with the thigh of the offender.

The offi cer would then use a pattern of movement to adopt a better tactical position and would give further positive verbal commands for the offender to move back.

Rear jab (two handed carry position)

In this case an offender has been able to breach the reactionary gap to the rear of the offi cer.

Following positive verbal commands for the offender to “Get back”, the offi cer responds with a rear jab. This is completed by lifting the power tip slightly and tilting the Hindi cap end downwards towards the subject’s thigh area. The offi cer then thrusts both arms rearward causing the Hindi cap of the baton to contact with the thigh of the offender (Figure 16).

The offi cer then re-establishes a safe reactionary gap, whilst giving further positive verbal commands.


Rib rub

The rib rub is an effective technique which can be utilised in situations where the subject is holding on to a person or object.

The offi cer holds the grip section of the baton in their strong hand, with the power tip facing forwards. The thumb of the strong hand is placed on top of the grip section and the rest of the grip section is placed on the inside of the wrist. The offi cer places the power tip of the baton into the target area and applies pressure to the target area by rubbing the power tip up and down whilst pushing towards the centre of the body.

Rake

The rake is another close-quarter combat technique. It can be utilised to regain a safe reactionary gap.

The offi cer holds the grip section in their strong hand. The striking and mid section of the baton are placed across the subjects chest at a 45 degree angle. The offi cer’s weak hand should be supporting the striking and mid section. The power tip should be resting just on the collar bone. To regain the safe reactionary gap the offi cer pushes the subject away whilst simultaneously raking the baton down across the chest.


Baton retentionIn large scale public order situations we could have the potential for offenders to come into close proximity to offi cers and attempt to take hold of the offi cer’s baton. If a subject takes an offi cer’s baton that offi cer then becomes very vulnerable to attack. Subjects will attempt to use the baton to assault the offi cer. This level of threat would be classed as “serious aggravated resistance” as they are now in possession of a weapon. Offi cers can then use reasonable force to ensure that they maintain control of the baton.

Circular retention technique

The offender takes hold of the baton. The offi cer spins around and places their weak hand on the mid section of the baton. The offi cer then begins to draw a large “C” shape from bottom to the top. At the top of the circle the offi cer then drops their body weight and pulls and drags the baton out of the offender’s hand. The offi cer then re-establishes the safe reactionary gap, placing the baton in its high profi le position and reassesses the potential threat.

There may be the occasion where the offender has taken hold of the baton with both hands. In this circumstance the circular technique may be ineffective. Therefore the offi cer may fi nd it necessary to use the baton to strike the offender.


The offi cer takes hold of the baton on the mid section and either drives the power tip of the baton into the offender’s body or rotates the grip section with their strong hand and drives the Hindi cap into the offender’s face area. If this has been successful the offi cer then disengages to re-establish the safe reactionary gap and reassess the potential threat.

If the offi cer has attempted the baton retention techniques and they have failed the offi cer would revert to using other body weapons to strike the offender in order to regain possession of the baton.

Shin restraintThe shin restraint can be utilised in a number of operational situations. It can be used to establish if the subject is feigning unconsciousness or can be utilised as a pain compliance tool to remove hands from underneath their body.

The offi cer secures the subject’s feet with their knees. The offi cer then takes out the baton in their strong hand and extends the baton. The offi cer then places the baton in the inverted grip so the power tip is pointing down towards the fl oor and the Hindi cap is pointing upwards.


The offi cer then takes the baton across the body and places the baton under the shins of the subject.

With the baton still in the strong hand the offi cer places the forearm of the strong hand onto the back of the subject’s calves whilst he/she takes hold of the power tip with their weak hand. The offi cer then applies pressure to the shins with the baton whilst simultaneously pressing down with his/her forearms. The offi cer also utilises tactical communication to ensure the subject is aware of what the offi cer requires him/her to do.


Technique considerations1. Offi cers should seek to maintain a reactionary gap of 4 to 6 feet.2. Offi cers should attempt to move off a line of attack.3. Offi cers must utilise the weak hand tactically to block or fend off an attacker.4. Strikes should always be delivered with maximum power to

• eliminate the need for multiple strikes.• reduce the need to escalate force.• reduce the time span of the confrontation.

5. De-escalate with follow-up control.6. Use loud repetitive verbal commands.

Follow up procedures1. Document use of baton (pocket book).2. Inform the custody offi cer.3. Use of baton to be included on custody record and subject of a Use of Force Report.4. Police Surgeon to attend if:

• injury to prisoner.• prisoner complains of injury.• prisoner requests medical attention.




03000 111 222

CONFLICT MANAGEMENT


Handcuffi ng

5-1DEFENSIVE TACTICS TRAININGHandcuffi ng

ContentsIntroduction ........................................................................................... 5-2Policy .................................................................................................... 5-3

Rules for handcuffi ng ....................................................................... 5-4Nomenclature ........................................................................................ 5-5Proper grip ............................................................................................ 5-6Defi nition of terms .................................................................................. 5-7

Loading of handcuffs ....................................................................... 5-7Strong hand/strong side .................................................................. 5-7

Tactical positioning .................................................................................. 5-8Communication skills............................................................................... 5-9Application ............................................................................................. 5-10

Application site ............................................................................... 5-10Application technique .............................................................................. 5-11Hand position following handcuffi ng .......................................................... 5-12Preparation ............................................................................................ 5-12Techniques............................................................................................. 5-13

Compliant handcuffi ng to the front .................................................... 5-13Compliant handcuffi ng to the front – safe removal ............................... 5-14Compliant handcuffi ng to the rear ..................................................... 5-16Safe search method – standing technique .......................................... 5-18Compliant handcuffi ng to the rear – safe removal ................................ 5-20Prone handcuffi ng ........................................................................... 5-21Prone search .................................................................................. 5-22Standing the subject up ................................................................... 5-24Non-compliant handcuffi ng in the ground pin position ......................... 5-26Weak side application ...................................................................... 5-26Strong side application .................................................................... 5-29

Vehicle tactic .......................................................................................... 5-31Cell exit technique ................................................................................. 5-33Handcuffi ng two subjects ......................................................................... 5-37

5-2 DEFENSIVE TACTICS TRAININGHandcuffi ng

IntroductionThis document has been formulated to give guidance to offi cers on the use of handcuffs, both in terms of policy (who and why do we handcuff) and technique (how do we handcuff).

Handcuffi ng has been described as our most used and least practised skill. Because of this offi cers have little or no expertise in terms of the physical skills necessary to effect handcuffi ng whilst keeping injury potential both for themselves and the prisoner to a minimum.

This document aims to give positive guidance to offi cers regarding the use of handcuffs and serve as a reference for offi cers in justifying the use of handcuffs at any subsequent court proceedings, or following complaints from prisoners.

A training package has been put together following the advice of Police Surgeons, our Complaints and Discipline Department and the CPS to maximise effectiveness, whilst minimising injury potential and therefore liability, to both the individual offi cer and the force. This package has the effect of standardising training in the use of handcuffs for this force and so enhances professionalism in one area of our ‘use-of-force programme’.

The practical techniques have been selected for use following a review of systems used throughout the world, including Peel Region (Canada), FBI, Quick-Kuf, DCS Police Use of Force, MOAB Handcuffi ng, PPCT (USA) and tactical handcuffi ng used by the New York Police Department.

The criteria used for selection of the advice and techniques included in this manual are:

• techniques are easy to learn• techniques are easy to apply• training is task related - teaching the offi cer to deal with the actual risk and resistance that

they encounter• safety of the offi cers and prisoners is maximised without compromising effectiveness

Skills based training refi ned by operational use will facilitate a reduction in injuries to both subjects and police offi cers and bring about a decline in the number of complaints associated with the use of handcuffs.


PolicyThe primary reason for handcuffi ng is safety:

• safety of the police offi cer or colleagues• safety of the public• safety of the subject (where practicable)

Nothing in this document will require you to relinquish that safety.

Secondary reasons for handcuffi ng:

1. where the offi cer judges it necessary to prevent the subject from assaulting, injuring or offering violence to a member of the public.

2. where the offi cer judges it necessary to prevent the subject from assaulting, injuring of offering violence to him / herself or other police offi cers.

3. where the offi cer judges it necessary to prevent the subject from escaping or attempting to escape from custody.

4. when transporting the subject in a police vehicle or on other prisoner escort duties.5. when the offi cer judges it necessary to prevent the subject harming him / herself.6. to secure evidence.

THESE ALL APPLY WHEN AT THE SCENE OF AN INCIDENT, OR AT ANY TIME

The use of handcuffs will be at the discretion of the individual offi cer, based on his/her judgement, in often volatile and rapidly evolving circumstances. Handcuffi ng is a use of force and must be justifi able and reasonable as with other use of force options. It is not possible to give instructions to cover every eventuality but remember there must be some objective basis for the decision.

As with all other use of force the use of handcuffs must be reasonable and proportionate. Statute and common law governing use of force must now be read in conjunction with the Human Rights Act. The use of non-lethal force is still guided by a test of reasonableness rather than “the use of force which is no more than absolutely necessary”. The Convention, however, raises related issues in respect of proportionality. Is the use of force chosen the least intrusive and damaging practicable option? Careful consideration must be given to striking a fair balance between the rights of the suspect/s, subjects or prisoners and the interests of the community at large.

In choosing to use handcuffs offi cers must consider whether there is a less intrusive, but similarly effective, option that can be selected.

A lawful interference with individuals’ human rights must be necessary and this depends upon the measure being taken being proportionate to the legitimate aim being pursued in respect of qualifi ed rights like Article 8. For example, the lawful arrest or detention of a suspect pursues the legitimate aim of the prevention and detection of crime.

If the force is not used in a proportionate way then this may amount to a breach of Article 8 of the European Convention on Human Rights. This Article guarantees not only the right to privacy, but also the fi ght to physical integrity – the right not to be hurt in an arbitrary or unjustifi able way.

In every instance when handcuffs are applied they must be double-locked, to prevent circulatory inhibition or damage to the wrist/skin by tightening. If, because of the subject’s conduct (violent or struggling), it is not possible to double lock the handcuffs the subject should be checked at regular intervals for any signs of injury and this should be reported on arrival at the custody suite.


Rules for handcuffi ng

1. Do not handcuff yourself, or another offi cer, to a prisoner.2. Do not handcuff a subject to a fi xed object.3. Do not apply one handcuff and attempt to lead the subject off by holding the free end.4. Do not handcuff a subject to a fi xed point inside a vehicle.5. Do not have your handcuff key on a ring with numerous other keys. Have it on a ring by

itself or with one other key. 6. Do not handcuff subjects whilst positioned in front of them.7. If you decide to handcuff a subject handcuff fi rst and search afterwards.8. Do not attempt to handcuff a resisting subject until he/she is under control.9. Avoid use of stationary, vertical objects, such as a car or wall to prop the subject up

against.10. Always remove handcuffs with a high level of awareness.11. Be certain to look up and monitor your surroundings, prior to, during and after handcuffi ng.12. Carry two handcuff keys with you, one to be used routinely, and the other to be hidden in

case of emergency.13. Handcuffs should be worn on your belt in a position easily accessible to both hands.14. Following handcuffi ng, subjects must be re-positioned from a prone face down position as

soon as practicable. Sitting, kneeling or standing the subject up are acceptable. Maintain Positional Asphyxia and Acute Behavioural Disorder awareness.

15. When handcuffi ng is completed offi cers should not continue to apply pressure to a subject’s back when in the prone face down position.

16. Subjects are not to be transported in the prone, face down, position.

Remember that no one can guarantee your safety in a situation where aggression and violence are exhibited but by paying attention to this set of rules you may enhance your chances of remaining safe, both on the street and in the courtroom.


Nomenclature

Single Bar Double bar

Key holes Double locking pins

Single bar Double bar

Pawl hinge

Single bar. When the single bar is pushed against the subject’s wrist it will pass through the double bar, encircle the wrist and engage into the ratchet system in the body of the handcuffs.

Double bar. The double bar is a fi xed part of the handcuffs and is separated by the single bar.

Key holes. Located on the single bar side of the handcuffs. To unlock the handcuffs insert the key and turn towards the single bar, this will remove the double lock, and then turn the key to the double bar.

Double locking pins. After placing the handcuffs on the subject’s wrist and the single bar has engaged into the ratchet system the double locking pin should be engaged by pushing the pointed top on the handcuff key into the double locking pinhole. To disengage the double-locking mechanism insert the key into the keyhole and turn it towards the single bar. To unlock the handcuffs turn the key in the opposite direction.


Proper grip

Single bar

Top cuff

Bottom cuff

To facilitate effective handcuffi ng the handcuffs should be gripped as shown, with the single bar facing away from the wrist and the key holes facing outwards. Your strong thumb should rest on the strip of Velcro. Held in the correct position the cuff protruding from the thumb side of the hand is called the ‘top cuff’ and the cuff protruding from the little fi nger side of the hand is called the ‘bottom cuff’.


Defi nition of termsIt is important to have a common terminology in any training where physical skills are to be used to ensure a standardisation of that training and to ensure a thorough understanding by the students. The following terms are commonly used in this system of handcuff training.

Loading of handcuffs

Loading of the cuffs simply means allowing the single bar to pass through the double bar. The single bar is then pulled smartly back through the double bar until it engages in the ratchet mechanism. This sets the single bar in a ready position which will offer the least resistance when applying the handcuffs.

Strong hand/strong side

These are terms used to describe your dominant side. They are used in instruction to avoid confusion between left and right-handed offi cers.

For right handed offi cers For left handed offi cer

Right hand = Strong hand Left hand = Strong hand

Left hand = Weak hand Right hand = Weak hand

Right leg = Strong leg Left leg = Strong Leg

Left leg = Weak leg Right leg = Weak leg

Right side = Strong side Left side = Strong side

Left side = Weak side Right side = Weak side

Non-violent posture

By adopting a non-violent posture we can seek to maintain an advantage by achieving good balance and reducing the target area available to a potential attacker. To achieve this offi cers should adopt a stance about shoulder width (or just over) with their strong leg and arm to the rear. Weight should be evenly distributed between front and rear leg.


Tactical positioningNot only during handcuffi ng, but in many high risk encounters, research shows that many offi cers are injured because of their lack of awareness regarding body positioning and approach. By adopting a simple system of tactical positioning offi cers can reduce risks considerably.


In referring to the diagram above note the shaded area immediately in front of the person. This shows the ‘fi ghting arc’ - a 180° arc in front of the body in which the majority of people have a high degree of natural fi ghting skill. As a result most resistance (and therefore the majority of injuries) occur within that arc, when offi cers are attempting to arrest a violently resisting offender. Be aware of this and stay out of that arc.

The optimum approach position for handcuffi ng is diagonally off one of the subject’s shoulders. (The right shoulder for a right-handed offi cer and the left shoulder for a left handed offi cer).

Even when handcuffi ng a subject’s hands to the front offi cers should adopt this position (see section - Handcuffi ng Arms to Front).

At this positioning stage tactical communication skills are also very important and are dealt with in the next chapter.


Communication skillsResearch in other countries shows that the majority of prisoners are compliant when handcuffed. Further research shows that, when prisoners do resist handcuffi ng, between 50% and 67% of that resistance occurs after the fi rst handcuff is applied. Studies also show that 70% of persons who assault or resist police offi cers have imbibed excess amounts of alcohol. Whilst there has been no research in this country there is no reason to suggest that the UK would produce different data. Bearing the above facts in mind it is important, therefore, that we learn to use and combine verbal skills with our physical skills.

Firstly assess the prisoner. When it comes to handcuffi ng there are three types of prisoner:

1. totally cooperative2. potentially uncooperative3. totally uncooperative

The totally co-operative subject is the one whom we know will comply with our requests and will not resist handcuffi ng.

The totally uncooperative subject is the one who indicates that he or she will physically resist an attempt to handcuff. Under these circumstances establish physical control before you attempt to handcuff.

The potentially uncooperative subject is the one who has made no such indication to us but, because of his/her conduct (may be drunk), we cannot be sure of compliance throughout the handcuffi ng procedure. The section of this document which covers practical techniques will address both the cooperative and potentially uncooperative subject.

• Prior to applying handcuffs ensure the subject is aware that he/she is under arrest.• Try to use relaxed tones.• Explain that the reason for use of the handcuffs is to ensure safety of everyone including

the subject.• Use simple terms and give simply instructions in highly charged situations complicated

messages will not be understood.

This is particularly important if the person you are dealing with is suffering from the effects of drink or drugs, or suffers from some learning diffi culty. Try to avoid remarks of a threatening or intimidatory nature - which would only serve to escalate a situation and necessitate the use of higher levels of force.

When you have applied the handcuffs enquire with the subject to see if they are too tight. If so loosen them slightly. Double lock the handcuffs. This small measure of consideration, where subject conduct allows, shows a caring attitude and would also help to negate any allegations of excessive use of force or misuse of handcuffs. It is also very useful in terms of witness perception. Remember we are always subject of scrutiny by members of the public who are not directly involved in these incidents.

When removing handcuffs again talk to the subject in relaxed tones and explain what you are doing. Give simple commands to allow for safe removal of the handcuffs. On removal check the wrists for signs of injury and inform the custody offi cer of the circumstances surrounding the use of handcuffs. Suggestions as to the commands to be given during the application and removal of handcuffs are shown in the section of this document dealing with the practical techniques.

Remember! Courtesy costs nothing, even when effecting an arrest. It has been the case on more than one occasion that it is what the offi cer SAID, not what he DID that made the difference between a conviction and an acquittal at a subsequent court appearance.


ApplicationThe physical site of the application of the handcuffs is important. If the handcuffs are applied to the correct site, with the correct technique, there are three positive benefi ts in this important area of use of force:

1. speed is maximised2. control is maximised3. injury potential to the subject is minimised

Application site

Handcuffs should be applied to the area that forms the small hollow between the base of the radial and ulna bones and the hand. Placing the handcuffs on this area minimises the chance of injury to the radius and ulna bones, to the radial and ulna nerves and the carpal bones of the wrist. It also minimises the possibility of injury to, or restriction of, the veins and arteries of the wrist area.

Humerus

Radius

Ulna

Scapula

Clavicle

Ossa Capri

Ossa Metacapri

Ossa Digitorum Manus

Gods Notch


Application techniqueAs well as the site of application the actual technique is also important. Using proper technique will maximise speed and effectiveness whilst minimizing injury potential.

1. Do not strike the handcuffs against the wrist.2. Apply the handcuffs by placing the single bar against the side of the wrist then push

smartly against the wrist until the single bar swivels through the double bar, encircles the wrist and engages in the ratchet mechanism in the body of the handcuffs.

3. Apply the second handcuff and then push on the single bars until the handcuffs fi t without being too tight.

4. Double lock both handcuffs (where the subject’s conduct permits).5. Always apply the handcuffs at right angles to the wrist so that the single bar swivels over

the narrowest part of the wrist. This will allow for easy engagement into the ratchet mechanism. This will also help to prevent the common injury sustained when fl esh is pinched between the single bar and the ratchet mechanism of the handcuffs.

6. Rather than just hold the subject’s arm still and push the handcuff onto the wrist try also pushing the subject’s wrist into the handcuff. This is, in effect, a double push method - pushing the handcuffs towards the wrist and pulling the wrist towards the handcuffs.

7. When taking hold of the subject to handcuff grasp the fi ngers and the thumb, but not the wrist itself. This ensures that your own hand does not obstruct your handcuffi ng techniques. It also maximises your level of control and minimises injury potential to the subject.


Hand position following handcuffi ngShown below are the hand positions that will result when applying handcuffs to a subject in accordance with this document.

Figure 1 shows the hands back to back, behind the subject’s back.

Figure 2 shows the stacked position with fi ngers facing in opposite directions with palms facing inwards. This is the safest technique to use when handcuffi ng a subject with his/her hands to the front.

Variations of this include both palms facing upwards, both downwards or both palms facing away from each other

PreparationAll instructions given throughout the Practical Technique Section of this document are for right-handed offi cers. For left-handed offi cers substitute right for left and vice-versa.

Prepare yourself to handcuff following the arrest of the subject by following the series of steps outlined below. This will help to eliminate mistakes and maximise your safety.

1. Adopt a proper stance.2. Position yourself to the right ‘off shoulder’ position behind the subject. 3. Leave a distance of about four to six feet between yourself and the subject.4. Give the necessary verbal commands to have the subject adopt the position you require for

handcuffi ng. 5. Remove your handcuffs from your pouch, load and use proper grip, with the handcuffs in

your strong hand. Make a point of leaving it until this stage to remove the handcuffs from your pouch, removing them earlier will hamper your reaction in the event of the prisoner attacking you.

You are now ready to commence the handcuffi ng procedure.

The following pages show methods of handcuffi ng in detail.


TechniquesCompliant handcuffi ng to the front

Handcuffi ng to the front is suitable for prisoner escort duties. It may also be suitable for court appearances, where there is a risk of escape.

Technique

1. Adopt a tactical position and prepare.

2. Use verbal direction to position the subject.

Suggested phrases:

• “Widen your stance please”• “Point your toes outwards please”• “Raise both arms up sideways, level with your shoulders please”• “Show me the backs and palms of your hands please”• “Turn your right palm up please”

The subject will now be in the position shown below, and you are ready to commence handcuffi ng.

3. Instruct the subject to turn his/her hand so that their right palm is facing upwards. Draw the handcuffs from your pouch, load and adopt proper grip in your strong hand. Take hold of the subject’s right arm, above the wrist, with your weak hand. Apply the bottom cuff to the subject’s right wrist.


4. Now instruct the subject to touch his/her right elbow with his/her left hand. When that position is adopted take hold of the subject’s left hand with your weak hand and apply the top cuff to his/her left wrist. Check for fi t and double lock.

5. The procedure ends with the subject’s hands in the stacked position with his/her right palm facing up and his left palm facing down.

Compliant handcuffi ng to the front – safe removal

1. Ensure that the subject is facing away from you. Instruct them to widen their stance, turn their toes out slightly and look over their left/right shoulder. Tell the subject to place their hands either at shoulder or hip height. This will depend on your height. Taller offi cers should inform subject to place hands towards shoulders, shorter offi cers towards the hip.


2. Move in from the fi ve o’clock position (left handed offi cers move in from the 7 o’clock position) and take hold of the body of the cuffs. Remove the furthest cuff fi rst and instruct the subject to place their free hand in the small of their back.

3. Reload the single bar and extend the subject’s arm, making sure that you stay out of the fi ghting arc, and remove the remaining handcuff. Instruct the subject to place their other hand in the small of the back .


Compliant handcuffi ng to the rear

This technique is particularly relevant when dealing with a potentially uncooperative subject as it allows the offi cer controlling techniques to overcome resistance.

1. Adopt a proper stance using your tactical positioning skills (right off shoulder)

2. Instruct the subject to spread their feet wide (between 1 and 1½ shoulder widths) and have them point their toes outwards.

3. Lift the arms to shoulder height and show the palms and backs of the hands

4. Instruct the subject to lean forward slightly at the waist and place both of their hands in the small of the back.

You will note that the subject’s hands are facing palms outwards and the thumbs are pointing upwards.

5. Remove your handcuffs from your pouch, load and use proper grip.

6. Grasp the subject’s right hand with your weak hand by wrapping your fi ngers around the fi ngers and thumb. Pull the hand slightly downwards and away from the body.


7. Place the single bar of the bottom cuff against the subject’s wrist and then push smartly downwards whilst pulling the hand into the cuff. The single bar will encircle the wrist and engage in the ratchet mechanism.

8. Without moving your feet reach across with your weak hand, grasping the subject’s left hand, ensuring you wrap your fi ngers around both their thumb and fi ngers.

9. Place the single bar of the top cuff against the subject’s wrist and push down smartly whilst

pulling the hand into the cuff. The single bar will encircle the subject’s wrist and engage in the ratchet mechanism.

10. Check the cuffs for fi t and double lock them.


11. Adopt the escort position by placing your inside hand on the back of the wrist and your outside hand on the subjects elbow.

Safe search method – standing technique

Following the handcuffi ng of the subject you may decide that it is necessary to search him.

General points for safe searching:

• always ensure that you stay off the shoulder to the rear. Never stand in front of your prisoner when searching.

• divide the body into quarters and always ensure that you search over the central lines of the body.

• before you commence the search ensure you protect yourself by wearing your protective gloves.

• ask the subject “Do you have anything on you that you shouldn’t have? Any drugs, any weapons, any sharps? Do you have anything that could harm me or you?”

• pay particular attention to their response• when searching pay particular attention to the following areas;• all natural hollows of the body, groin, between the shoulder blades, small of the back and

the armpits, hair, waist area behind belt and belt buckle, top of shoes, socks• never blindly put your hands into someone’s pockets• always use the back of your hand to pat the subject before using the scrunch method

By adopting the following procedure you remain safe and reduce the chances of missing an item.

1. Instruct the subject to widen his/her feet (about 1½ shoulder widths) and point his/her toes outwards.

2. Remain at the rear of the subject, right of centre. Instruct the subject to look to the left.

3. Grasp the handcuffs with your weak hand and place your strong leg against the subject’s right leg


Search position (standing)

4. With your strong hand search the prisoner’s front, working top to bottom, remembering to overlap the centreline. When searching below the waist it will be necessary to kneel. Kneel on your weak leg, ensuring that your strong leg remains in contact with the prisoner’s leg and that you retain your grip on the handcuffs.

5. Use the back of the hand to search the groin area

6 Following search of the subject’s right hand side maintain your grip on the handcuffs with your weak hand and search the subject’s back area, again being sure to overlap the centreline.


7 Change your grip of the handcuffs to our strong hand and your position to left of centre and repeat the process for the left hand side of the subject.

Compliant handcuffi ng to the rear – safe removal 1. Position your subject so they are facing away from you. Tell them to widen their stance

and point their toes outwards and look away from you. Approach the prisoner from off the shoulder at the seven o’clock position (Left handed offi cers will approach from the fi ve o’clock position)

2. Move in and take hold of the handcuffs in your weak hand whilst you hold your handcuff key in the strong hand.

3. Release the handcuff that is furthest away from you and extend the subject’s arm, telling the subject to place his/her arm into the small of their back.


4. Remove the second cuff ensuring that you stay off the shoulder to the rear and tell the subject to place his/her other hand in the small of his/her back.

Prone handcuffi ng

This technique is suitable for use when the subject is already positioned on the ground. It can also be used in high risk situations where the subject has been instructed to adopt a prone position (such as in a fi rearms situation).

Technique

1. If the subject is not already face down instruct him/her to lie face down.

2. Instruct him/her to look away from you.

3. Instruct him/her to put arms out at shoulder height and show the palms and back of hands.

4. Instruct him/her to put his/her hands in the small of the back thumbs facing upwards

5. Instruct him/her to cross their legs.

The subject will now be in a suitable position and you are ready to commence handcuffi ng.

6. Approach from the 5 o’clock position, remove your handcuffs from your pouch and place them in the proper grip and ensure they are loaded. Take hold of the subject’s hand using the wrong hand shake position.


7. Place the bottom cuff against the application site and push the handcuff onto the wrist as you pull the wrist into the cuffs, until the single bar encircles the wrist.

8. Reach across and take hold of the subject’s free hand. Place the single bar of the top cuff on the application site and apply the top cuff.

9. Check for fi t and double lock the handcuffs

It may be necessary to search the subject in the prone position before standing the subject up.

Prone search

With the subject handcuffed in the prone position, face down, you can conduct a methodical search for weapons or property.

General points for prone searching:

• divide the body into quarters and always ensure that you search over the central lines of the body.

• before you commence the search ensure you protect yourself by wearing your protective gloves.

• ask the subject “Do you have anything on you that you shouldn’t have? Any drugs, any weapons, any sharps? Do you have anything that could harm me or you?”

• pay particular attention to their response• when searching pay particular attention to the following areas;• all natural hollows of the body, groin, between the shoulder blades, small of the back and

the armpits, hair, waist area behind belt and belt buckle, top of shoes, socks• never blindly put your hands into someone’s pockets• always use the back of your hand to pat the subject before using the scrunch method


Prone searching technique

1. Kneel on the fl oor by the right hand side of the subject and explain that you intend to conduct a search both for your safety and their safety.

2. Instruct the subject to look away from you. At this point conduct a search of the subject’s back area, paying particular attention to the small of the back.

3. When you have completed a search of the subject’s back, using the pat and scrunch technique, reach across and take hold of the subject’s left elbow, roll the subject towards you and place your knee nearest the subject’s head between the arm and body.

4. Use the back of the hand to search the front of the torso, ensuring that you go over the central line of the body and above and below the waist area. One you have completed the search with the back of the hand complete the scrunch method.

5. Once you have completed the upper body stay in position and commence the search of the lower body, fi rstly using the back of the hand and then the scrunch method.


6. When searching the inside of the leg and groin area use the blade and back of the hand.

7. On completion of search take hold of the elbow and shoulder and place the subject safely back into the prone position. Stand up and walk around the prisoner, making sure you stay clear of the head, and instruct them to look away from you. Repeat the process on the other side of the body.

In this way you have searched the subject thoroughly and methodically from a position of maximum control.

Make sure that you keep communicating with the subject, telling them what you are going to do. This not only keeps them informed but also gives them the option of assisting you. If, during the search, you fi nd a hidden weapon either hand it to another offi cer or place it in your utility vest or back pocket.

Standing the subject up

When you have completed your search of the subject you will then need to stand the subject up. If he/she is much bigger than you and outweighs you by several stones this seemingly simple manoeuvre can cause injury to you (back) and to the subject (wrists, elbows or shoulders) through the use of inappropriate or ineffective methods.

By adopting the following procedure you can move a prisoner up or to his/her feet without such complications, with the minimum strength.

1. Kneel by the right side of the prisoner and instruct them to look away from you.

2. With your hand reach across and take hold of the prisoner’s elbow. Instruct the subject to raise their head off the ground slightly whilst at the same time placing the back of your hand on the side of the subject’s head.


3. Tell the subject what you are about to do. Pull on the elbow and lift with your other hand and sit the subject onto the fl oor. Always make sure you remain off the shoulder to the rear.

4. Tell the subject to keep one leg straight and bend the other leg. Place your hand on the subject’s knee and apply downwards pressure to initiate the movement to the knees. As soon as the movement starts remove your hand from the knee and place the hand on the side of the head. This will help the subject as it gives them a point of pressure to push against.


5. Staying off the shoulder to the rear support the subject with one hand under the arm whilst keeping your hand on the head. Instruct the subject to stand.

6. Adopt the escort position.

It is important that you keep communicating with the subject at each stage of the process, telling him / her, what you are about to do. This gives him / her, the option of assisting you in the procedure. As most people do not like being on the fl oor the likelihood is that they will assist you. By using this method you are not placing undue pressure on the subject’s wrists and arms. This greatly reduces injury potential.

Non-compliant handcuffi ng in the ground pin position

Handcuffi ng in the ground pin position can be potentially diffi cult as, normally, we have adopted this position after physically struggling with a resistant subject. Once you have gained control and placed the subject in the ground pin position take a few seconds to establish if you have ended up on your weak or strong side.

Weak side application

The term “Weak side” refers to the offi cer’s weak side. For example: if a right-handed offi cer has applied a ground pin on a subject the offi cer’s left side would be closest to the subject’s body.


1. When you have established this point of control maintain the ground pin position and remove your handcuffs from their pouch. Load the cuffs.

2. Lift the fi ngers slightly and place the single bar of the bottom cuff against the application site (little fi nger side). Your palm should be facing upwards. Push the cuff away from you as you pull the wrist into the cuff until the single bar has encircled the wrist. The main body of the cuff should be coming out of the back of the hand.

3. Instruct the subject to place their other hand in the small of the back

4. Keep your strong hand on the cuffs, reach down and take hold of the thumb and fi ngers of the subject’s hand.


5. Lift the fi ngers and reach under the hand and apply the single bar of the top cuff to the wrist (little fi nger side), push and pull the wrist into the cuff so the hands end up in the back to back position.

6. Turn the fi ngers towards you to expose the double locking pins. Check for fi t and double lock the handcuffs.

7. On completion of the technique search and stand your subject using the techniques discussed earlier in this document


Strong side application

The term “strong side” refers to the offi cer’s strong side. For example: a right handed offi cer has applied a ground pin on the subject. The offi cer’s right side would be closest to the subject’s body.

1. When you have established this point of control lock your weak arm around the subject’s arm while you remove your cuffs from their pouch. Load them ready to apply.

2. Whilst maintaining the wrist lock apply the single bar of the bottom cuff on to the application site (thumb side). Push towards yourself and pull the wrist into the handcuff until the single bar has encircled the wrist. The main body of the cuff should come out of the back of the hand.

3. Instruct the subject to place their other hand into the small of their back.


4. Keeping your strong hand on the handcuffs reach down with your weak hand and take hold of the subject’s thumb and fi ngers. Trace the top cuff down your arm until it comes into contact with the application site (thumb side). Lift the fi ngers, pull the wrist into the cuffs. The technique should be completed with the subject’s hands in the back to back position.

5. Check for fi t and double lock the handcuffs.

6. On completion of the technique search and stand your subject using the techniques discussed earlier in this document.


Vehicle tacticHaving been handcuffed and searched it may be necessary to transport the subject to the police station to be processed. If we have a non compliant subject we should ideally transport that subject in a Police Support Unit van, however this may not always be available for use. The following tactic has been developed to locate a resistant subject into a vehicle or to control a subject who becomes non compliant during the transportation process.

1. Adopt the escort position and move the subject to the back of the vehicle. The subject should be located to the rear of the vehicle utilising the door to the rear of the driver seat.

2. Tell the subject to place his/her left foot into the foot well and take a seat.

3. Whilst maintaining the escort position tell the subject to move across the seat whilst you locate yourself into the vehicle.


4. Move the subject as close to the rear passenger’s window as possible. Push the subject’s right elbow towards the window whilst keeping hold of the wrist lock and place your nearest foot into the back of the subject’s calf, thereby locking the subject’s legs into position.

5. If the subject starts to resist you during the transportation process simply apply pain compliance to the wrist lock and support this action with your tactical communications, such as “Stop resisting”, “Stop fi ghting”.

6. On arrival at the police station the driver will alight from the driver’s seat and open the rear passenger’s door. Once the door is open instruct the subject to place his/her left foot on the fl oor and wait. Once this has been done instruct the subject to place their right foot on the fl oor and wait.

7. Place your left hand on the body of the cuffs.


8. When you are ready instruct the subject to stand up. Remove yourself from the vehicle, re-establish the escort position and transport the subject into the custody area.

Cell exit technique Information from operational offi cers (collected via the use of the reporting process) has shown that the following technique is frequently used. Offi cers have been able to safely remove handcuffs from a resisting subject and exit the cell with no injuries either to offi cers or offenders. Two offi cers work together to facilitate this technique.

Prior to using this technique place a mattress on the fl oor for the subject to lie on. This helps to reduce injury potential and makes it more comfortable for the subject. The subject is placed prone, face down on the mattress, with his/her head facing the door.

1. One offi cer maintains control with the escort position whilst the other offi cer holds the subject’s other arm. This position is extremely effective as it will allow the offi cers to utilise the wristlock if they experience resistance from the subject.


2. The subject is escorted to the rear of the cell and is then turned to face the cell door.

3. The subject is then asked to go down on to their knees.

4. When the subject is on their knees the offi cers then need to change grip so that both the offi cers have their hand nearest the subject in between the arm and the body and they are gripping the arm. The offi cers’ other hands rest on the subject’s shoulder blade. The offi cer’s inside foot is placed against the subject’s leg. This stops the subject from moving forward.

5. The subject is then informed that they will be taken to the fl oor


6. The offi cers then step forward with their outside leg and bend the knee nearest the subject’s body and place the subject fl at on the fl oor.

7. Both offi cers adopt the Ground pin position, with their inside shins resting lightly on the subject’s shoulder blades

8. Offi cer 2 unlocks the handcuff which is furthest away from him (subject’s left hand).

Offi cer 2Offi cer 1


9. Offi cers then apply straight armlocks and wristlock in Ground pin position.

10. Offi cer 2 then passes the subject’s wrist to Offi cer 1, who then maintains control of both arms, whilst Offi cer 2 unlocks and removes the other handcuff.

11. With both handcuffs removed Offi cer 2 allows Offi cer 1 to maintain control and exits from the Ground pin position.



12. Offi cer 1 stands up from the Ground pin position, maintaining control with the two armlocks, places their foot (closest to the back of the head) on the subject’s shoulder. This stops the subject from moving forward. Offi cer 1 then looks over the shoulder to make sure exit is clear and exits the cell leaving the subject on the fl oor.

Handcuffi ng two subjectsThe following technique is suitable for escort duties and for transporting of subjects in vehicles. By adopting the following procedure the subject’s ability to run is greatly reduced. It also maximises the offi cers’ ability to control them in the event of attempted escape or violence.

1. Instruct the subjects to stand one behind the other, look to their left and raise their right arms level with their shoulders. The subject at the front should have their right palms facing down whilst the subject to the rear has their palm facing upwards.


2. Adopt a tactical position (right off shoulder). Take the handcuffs from your pouch, load and use proper grip.

3. Approach the subject nearest to you and take hold of his/her arm above the wrist with your weak hand and apply the bottom cuff by placing the single bar against the wrist and pushing smartly. The single bar will encircle the wrist and engage in the ratchet mechanism.

4. Take hold of the second subject’s wrist with your weak hand, above the wrist and apply the top cuff by placing the single bar against the wrist and pushing smartly. The single bar will encircle the wrist and engage in the ratchet mechanism.

5. Check the cuffs for fi t and double lock.

Use this method only for compliant prisoners.


6. To escort the subjects place your weak hand on the main body of the cuffs.

7. In the event of attempt to escape or violence take hold of the handcuffs with your strong hand, invert the cuffs so the cuffs are now vertical, place your weak hand on top of the cuff, pull downwards as you drag step away. This pulls the subjects to the fl oor.

8. Keeping the subjects grounded can be achieved by placing your strong hand on the main body of the cuffs and moving them forward or back if the subjects exhibit attempts to escape or offer resistance.

9. Standing the subjects can be achieved by instructing them to stand whilst maintaining a safe reactionary gap.




03000 111 222

CONFLICT MANAGEMENT


Emergency Response Belts

6-1DEFENSIVE TACTICS TRAININGEmergency Response Belts (ERBs)

ContentsIntroduction ........................................................................................... 6-2Confl ict Management Model ...................................................................... 6-4


History and purpose ................................................................................ 6-9Nomenclature ........................................................................................ 6-9

Care and Washing of the Emergency Response Belt® .......................... 6-10Nomenclature of the ERB ........................................................................ 6-10

Parts indicated - viewed from the front .............................................. 6-10Parts indicated - viewed from the rear ............................................... 6-11

Advantages given by the ERB ................................................................... 6-11Loading and folding the ERB ..................................................................... 6-12

Loading the Velcro Compression Strap ............................................... 6-12Folding the ERB .............................................................................. 6-13

Loading the ERB into the carrier/holster ..................................................... 6-14ERB restraint techniques .......................................................................... 6-15

Full body wrap - chest ..................................................................... 6-15Full body wrap - legs ...................................................................... 6-18Full body wrap – midsection ............................................................. 6-20Important ...................................................................................... 6-21Lifting the prisoner/subject .............................................................. 6-22Carrying the prisoner/subject ........................................................... 6-25Important ...................................................................................... 6-26Placing the subject on the ground ..................................................... 6-26Standing procedure. ........................................................................ 6-27Walking with the subject .................................................................. 6-28Placement into transport .................................................................. 6-28Removal from transport ................................................................... 6-32Transportation process – Police Support Unit vehicle placement ............. 6-33Removal procedure ......................................................................... 6-34Safe removal of the ERB - standing ................................................... 6-36Safe removal of the ERB - prone ....................................................... 6-38Back arm restraint .......................................................................... 6-40The use of the ERB to prevent biting and spitting ................................ 6-41

ERB restraint techniques - care of the subject ........................................... 6-42General ......................................................................................... 6-42Medical Issues ................................................................................ 6-42

6-2 DEFENSIVE TACTICS TRAININGEmergency Response Belts (ERBs)

IntroductionSince the introduction of the defensive tactics programmes in November of 1994 Northamptonshire Police has continually evaluated the effectiveness of training and equipment. This has resulted in annual amendments to the manuals as a result of feedback from operational offi cers. As well as considering the practical skills within the programmes delivered the equipment with which offi cers are issued has also been subject of evaluation and continued research.

As a result of data provided from the reporting process it was possible to identify particular hazards with those prisoners/subjects, who continued to offer violence post-arrest, even though they were restrained in handcuffs. This resulted in injuries to themselves and offi cers and sometimes considerable damage to police property (vehicles and buildings).

It is acknowledged that the application of handcuffs does not, in itself, establish control. Whilst the majority of those placed in handcuffs do cease their resistance there are a few who continue to fi ght and pose the risks as outlined in the preceding paragraph.

Research regarding other restraint devices, which may allow a greater degree of control over such persons, was conducted and, in 2000, led the Northamptonshire Police to undertake a trial of a device called the Emergency Response Belt ®.

This device was designed and developed by Thomas J ARCHAMBAULT who was, at the time, a serving police offi cer in the United States, following several violent incidents with subjects who were extremely combative.

His research dates back to 1982 when he conducted an extensive study over a ten-year period on Federal data involving the deaths and serious injuries to police offi cers in custody and handcuffi ng situations. The research subsequently led to the development of the highly acclaimed “Police Control and Restraint Techniques® Instructor Certifi cation Course” released in 1982 and to date, has resulted in thousands of instructors being trained and hundreds of offi cer’s lives saved from this high retention, dynamic, training program.

Other profession specifi c programs developed and implemented in the control and restraint fi eld include; C.E.R.T (Corrections Emergency Response Team), EMS Mechanics of Control, Violent Patient Management for Emergency Room Nurses and Juvenile Critical Response Team - Training Course. The Emergency Response Belt® and its associated program was released in October 1989, due to the lack of a soft styled protective and restraining device carried on the person, for professions having to handle violent persons.

Since its release in August 1989 the Emergency Response Belt® (ERB) has been used in the United States by virtually every profession that has to handle violent or injured individuals. The ERB has proven its use and effectiveness, within these areas, faster than any other device in United States history.

For practical and daily use the ERB has proven throughout the United States to reduce injuries and potential litigation. The capability of moving and transporting violent persons, as well as the use by police in booking/intake areas, transports to court, for Correctional Emergency Response Teams, Emergency Medical Teams, Paramedics and Hospitals has made the ERB one of the fastest accepted devices ever developed for professions who manage violent persons.

Within the adopting agencies the ERB has proven to reduce injuries and subsequent litigation.

With the ERB being utilised by numerous professions within prisons, police stations and in the fi eld, it provides tremendous court credibility for those employing its humane techniques. Made of “tough cloth” the various Emergency Response Belt® training programs are “profession specifi c” with each program tailored for the required uses of its staff in handling violent subjects. The basics of control, restraint, transport and movement are generic and used by all disciplines. In addition, the ERB is not and will not be, issued without certifi ed training. This has been a key issue with the nationally established credibility with the device since its introduction in late 1989.


Following a medical and legal review undertaken by Northamptonshire Police, offi cers undertook training to Master Instructor Level and personnel in two areas within the force were trained in its use. A detailed evaluation took place across the Western and Northern Areas of the force. The ERB proved successful in all applications over a three-month period. During its use there were no injuries to offi cers or subjects and no damage to police vehicles or other property. Offi cers had a high degree of confi dence in the device and expressed strong support for its introduction.

Following an evaluation and review the decision was taken to adopt the ERB for use across the force. It has been the subject of further medical and legal review and will be used by offi cers following the training programme, which includes the physical skills necessary to safely apply the ERB, prisoner/subject care and issues relating to context – reasonable and proportionate use of force, considering domestic law and human rights legislation.










ConstantCycle






Threat Assessment




Compliance




Passive resistance


Active resistance














Powers and Policies

Use of force Policy





Powers
















Article 2






Tactical Options



Offi cer presence








Defensive Tactics



Less Lethal Options


Lethal/Deadly Force


Actions




History and purposeThe EMERGENCY RESPONSE BELT® (ERB) was designed and developed by Thomas J. Archambault a use of force expert and nationally recognized instructor. He developed the device and concept by using a large bath towel to handle a violent, 14-year-old female, who was suffering severe mental health problems, while backing up a paramedic unit.

The ERB is presently in use by numerous professions which have to handle violent or injured individuals in the course of their employment.

Weighing less than one pound, it is made of tough cloth material, and “is not considered a weapon.”

Its intended purpose is to provide a protective and restraining device for staff that have the potential to handle, control, restrain, and move violent or injured subjects.

The EMERGENCY RESPONSE BELT® (ERB) has been granted patent number 333,193.

Nomenclature 1. Body - large fl at surface area of cloth consisting of the majority part of the ERB and has

primary and Secondary Handles attached.

2. Primary Handles - larger handles located on each end of the body of the ERB with one Primary Handle having a metal D-ring attached. These act as handles on the body.

3. D-Ring - metal ring attached to one of the Primary Handles (left) used for the Velcro Compression Strap restraining techniques.

4. Secondary Handles - smaller handles located at each end of the ERB attached to the body. Acts as handles on the body and on the left, D-ring side is used to control the subject while the primary handle with D-ring on the left side is being used for restraining techniques.

5. Velcro Compression Strap (VCS) - Long Velcro strap consisting of both hook and loop. This is the adjustable strap that is fed through the D-ring used for restraining and utility purposes.


6. Velcro Compression Strap Retaining Loops - two loops located on the back side of the ERB which will hold the Velcro Compression Strap into place when properly loaded.

7. Carrier Case/Holster

a. Carrier - two carriers are available. One for the law enforcement, prisons, security and Juvenile Justice professions. The other for EMS, Hospital, Mental Health and Health care professions.

b. Belt Loops - designed on the Tactical Carrier Case to be placed for use on a duty belt.

c. Retention Strap - leather strap used to hold in placed the folding handles of the ERB when packed properly into the case.

d. Elastic Loop - designed to hold and carry various profession-specifi c equipment. It can carry incapacitant spray, expandable batons, mini-fl ashlights, stethoscope and other equipment.

e. Front Pouch - a pouch designed to carry handcuffs, latex gloves, medical tape or the secondary restraining straps.

Care and Washing of the Emergency Response Belt®

If the ERB is soiled, simply machine wash and hang to dry. A mild anti bacterial soap may be used as needed. Do not place the ERB in a clothes dryer as the heat may damage the threads and weaken the ERB.

Nomenclature of the ERB Parts indicated - viewed from the front

Secondary handle Body Primary handle


Parts indicated - viewed from the rear

Advantages given by the ERBThe ERB gives the effect of “putting handles on the body which gives upper and lower torso control of a violent, injured, or passive subject which allows them to be carried and moved with ease like a suitcase.

1. The common denominator of controlling a violent person is that the limbs must be controlled.

2. You cannot apply any restraining device unless the limbs are under control (either verbal or physical control). This includes the application of handcuffs.

3. The ERB provides control over the arms and legs by using the handles and wrapping effect of the belt around the limb rather than using your hands.

Factors that affect controlling the limbs include:

• hand size - strength• the subject’s arm size/strength• oily substance or perspiration on the limbs making them slippery• loose clothing making the limb hard to control and grab

The ERB assists in helping to overcome these factors.

vvvvvvvvvvvvaaantagges ggiven byy the ERB

D-Ring Retaining loops for Velcro compression strap

Primary handle with D-Ring attached Velcro compression strap


Loading and folding the ERBProperly loading and folding the ERB is extremely important for the proper deployment of the device from the carrier case during defensive movements and for executing the restraining techniques.

Loading the Velcro Compression Strap

Preparing the Velcro Compression Strap

1. Remove the ERB from the case and open it up on the fl oor, table or other hard surface (do not load it in your lap).

2. Place the D-Ring in your left hand and have the back side (VCS retaining loops) facing you.

3. The Velcro Compression Strap should then be released and will be laid out to the right.

4. Fully extend the Velcro Compression Strap by removing it from the retaining loops.

5. The Velcro Compression Strap is now ready to be loaded.

6. Fold the Velcro Compression Strap over the retaining loops to approximately one fi nger’s width after the retaining loop closest to the D-ring then fl atten the VCS with your hand. The “hook portion” of the Velcro strip should be centred between the two retaining loops.


7. Thread the strap through the retaining loops, and fl atten the VCS with your hand

8. Bring the remainder of the strap over the right side retaining loop and attach to the Velcro strip located along the Velcro Compression Strap.

9. The Velcro Compression Strap is now loaded and the ERB is ready to be folded.

Folding the ERB

1. The ERB is folded in half from the D-Ring side to the right until the body edges of the ERB are joined together.

2. Fold the body of ERB in half again, from the left to the right.


3. Pull the D-Ring Handle and the Secondary Handle over the fold, and fold the D-Ring and handle back to the left.

Loading the ERB into the carrier/holster1. Place your right hand through the openings of the opposite handle and hold the D-Ring to

the folded belt with your thumb. Hold the carrier in your left hand, making sure that the belt loops are facing towards you.

2. The ERB is placed into the carrier case with the D-Ring Side facing towards your body or the inside portion of the carrier case.

3. The free handles are placed outside of the case, folded and secured by the restraining strap of the carrier case.


ERB restraint techniquesRestraint is attained when the arms and legs are under control. A person must be controlled before any restraining device can be applied, regardless of the device, whether handcuffs, tuff-ties, fl ex-cuffs, or the Emergency Response Belt®. Handcuffs or some sort of wrist restraints should always be initially used with the ERB when dealing with potentially violent subjects.

The ERB has been designed and developed to offer staff superior control of a subject after he/she has been controlled physically and handcuffed or the wrists restrained.

Control can be accomplished by several methods:

• a stronger individual controlling a weaker individual.• using a greater number of personnel on an individual.• using a device or hand technique utilizing leverage on a joint location.• use of Pava/Taser.

Always try to control a subject with your strong or dominant hand.

Always control fi rst then apply restraints.

Use of the ERB Velcro Compression Strap

One of the most used features of the ERB is its use of the Velcro Compression Strap restraint system. The system employed by the device is probably the singular most popular use of the device for any profession that has to move or transport a violent or injured person from point A to B.

The ERB gives the effect of “putting handles on the body” which gives upper and lower torso control of a violent, injured, or passive subject which allows them to be carried and moved with ease like a suitcase. Subjects can either be walked with one belt on the upper torso or carried with three or more belts (one on the upper torso, one at the waist and one or more, if necessary, on the legs) by staff members.

As many as fi ve ERBs have been used on some violent subjects. It is always recommended that when moving or transporting heavy persons to use a minimum of three ERBs. The ERB will restrain approximately 80% of the population.

Full body wrap - chest

1. Once the subject is under control and handcuffed deploy the Velcro Compression Strap from the ERB. (The operator of the ERB should be on the left side of the prone subject, Offi cer 1, and the assistant, Offi cer 2, on the right side of the subject). Make sure that your knees are close to the subject’s elbows. This pushes the arms further down the body.



2. The operator should use the following commands to the assistant:

a. “Take the handles in your right hand, and the strap in your left hand...”

b. “When I tap your hand, pull the strap”

3. With the compression strap fully extended place your free hand under the arm of the subject to lift the chest off the fl oor slightly. Place the extended Velcro Compression Strap around the upper torso of the subject so that the strap and the D-Ring are located about an inch above the elbow. The D-Ring should rest in the gap created by the arm and the body.

4. The body of the ERB should be on the chest of the subject with the ERB logo readable from the front of the subject. The Velcro Compression Strap will be on the back of the subject.


5. Thread the Velcro Compression Strap through the D-Ring. The operator will instruct the assistant to take the compression strap in an underhand grip. The operator reaches across and takes hold of the compression strap at it furthest point. On the given command of “one, two or three” the strap is pulled tight and locked into position by pressing it on the Velcro.

6. It is very important to pull the strap as tight as possible as it will give approximately 1 inch.

7. Make sure that you secure as much of the Velcro Compression Strap as possible, evenly, to the Velcro to assure good locking.

8. Offi cer 1 will place his/her left hand on the handle with his/her right hand on the Velcro Compression Strap

9. Offi cer 2 will place his/her right hand on the handles and grab the Velcro Compression Strap with his/her left hand. This is known as the “ locked and secured” position. Both offi cers will place their knee that is nearest the subject on the fl oor and their foot of their outside leg on the fl oor. Each offi cer should state that they are in the “locked and secured” position.


The subject can now be helped to their feet by the offi cers. However this would only be applicable if the subject showed an element of compliance. If they continued to resist then other ERB’s will need to be applied to lift and move a resistant subject.

In the event that it is necessary to carry the subject there must be 3 ERBs applied to give suffi cient control and support for the safety of both the subject and the offi cers.

Full body wrap - legs

With the subject in the prone face down position and secured in handcuffs offi cers may choose to apply the ERB to the subject’s legs instead of the upper body. This is a tactical decision for the offi cer, based on subject conduct and any attendant impact factors.

The ERB is only applied to the legs of the subject when in the prone position. The application site is at the knees. The deployment of the ERB is identical to previous deployments with offi cer (1) on the left of the subject and offi cer (2) to the right. Offi cer (1) gives the commands and is in charge of the application.

Application to the knees differs from the application to the upper body in that the Velcro compression strap encircles the knees once prior to it being secured through the “D” ring.

This procedure is explained with the text and photographs that follow.

1. Having deployed the ERB from the kneeling position the offi cer slide the device under the feet of the subject, who is prone and in handcuffs.

An alternative method of placing the ERB in the required position is to slide the Velcro compression strap under the subject’s legs and then pull the body of the ERB through.

2. The body of the ERB is then positioned at the knees of the subject



3. Offi cer 2 then hands offi cer 1 the Velcro compression strap, which is then threaded through the primary and secondary handles (Not the “D” ring). Offi cer 1 then encircles the knees with the Velcro strap whilst Offi cer 2 takes hold of both sets of handles and lifts the legs slightly to assist this process. It is important to keep the compression strap tight.

4. The Velcro compression strap is then wound completely around the knees, through the primary and secondary handles and passed through the “D” ring.

5. Offi cer 2 then pulls the Velcro compression strap back through the primary and secondary handles on her side of the subject whilst Offi cer 1 takes hold the primary handles.


6. Offi cer 2 then pulls the Velcro compression strap to secure the body of the ERB around the subject’s legs and then secures it against the body of the belt on her side of the subject’s legs.

7. The subject is now fully secured in the ERB. Note the position of the primary and secondary handles – to allow for easy carrying of the subject should the situation arise.

Lifting, carrying and transportation is detailed in a later section of this manual.

In line with other Force training in the care of subjects: once secured they must be moved from the prone face down position as soon as practicable. Offi cers must continue to monitor the prisoner throughout arrest and control procedures and must fully brief the custody offi cer regarding restraint techniques and equipment on arrival of the prisoner/subject at the custody suite. Subjects must not be left unaccompanied once the ERB has been applied.

Full body wrap – midsection

If it is necessary, because of subject conduct or disability/injury, to physically lift them in order to move them then it is necessary to apply a third ERB to the midsection.

1. Placement of the ERB around the midsection can be either from the top, as in this photograph, or offi cers can choose to apply from the lower body and slide it up to the midsection.



2. The offi cers position the body of the ERB under the midsection of the prisoner/subject and then Offi cer 2 feeds the Velcro compression strap over the top of the prisoner/subject’s arms, just above (not on top) of the handcuffs.

3. Offi cer 1 then feeds the Velcro compression strap through the “D ring and then hands it back to Offi cer 2

4. Offi cer 2 then secures the Velcro compression strap by wrapping it around the body.

The application of the third ERB is now complete. Note the position of the Velcro compression strap above (not on top) of the handcuffs.

Important

Note that the ERB applied to the midsection is to support the prisoner/subject for carrying. It is not compressed and pulled tight across the midsection. Offi cers should check it is secure, but is not so tight that the lower arms cannot move.

The following section of this manual deals with lifting and carrying of prisoners/subjects.


In line with other Force training in the care of subjects: once secured they must be moved from the prone face down position as soon as practicable. Offi cers must continue to monitor the prisoner throughout arrest and control procedures and must fully brief the custody offi cer regarding restraint techniques and equipment on arrival of the prisoner/subject at the custody suite. Subjects must not be left unaccompanied once the ERB has been applied.

Lifting the prisoner/subject

The word “lifting” relates to the process of movement of the prisoner/subject from the prone to the standing position. The primary and secondary handles of the ERB allow this lifting manoeuvre to be carried out in a safe and controlled manner with manual handling issues considered and complied with.

A prisoner/subject can be moved from the prone to the standing position, when either 1,2 or 3 ERBs are applied. The following series of photographs indicate the process of bringing the subject to the standing position.

1. Both offi cers kneel by the side of the subject, facing towards the head. Note the offi cers’ hands are in the “Locked” and “Secured” position

The inside knees of both offi cers are positioned near to the hips of the subject.

2. Offi cer 1 explains to the subject that they will pull backwards and upwards, indicating that they require him to bend his knees and adopt a kneeling position. Following the countdown – 1-2-3 both offi cers will pull UPWARDS and BACKWARDS from the “Locked” and “Secure” position and bring the prisoner/subject to his knees. As they pull both offi cers stand up and are now standing at the rear of the subject.


3. Offi cer 1 then explains that they will now pull backwards and upwards and that they require him to rock back on his heels and stand up.

Following the countdown – 1-2-3 both offi cers will pull UPWARDS and BACKWARDS from the “Locked” and “Secure” position with the subject on his knees and bring the subject to his feet. Once in this position the offi cers should extend their arm to ensure that they maintain a good secure position to then walk the subject.

Using this system of movement from prone to standing is subject of the two stages to enhance the safety of both offi cers and subject. Using this system, offi cers are not lifting “dead weight” but are in fact pulling, using the natural body mechanics/movement of the subject. This approach is less physically stressful for both offi cers and the prisoner/subject.

Owing to the subject’s demeanour/injury it may be necessary for the offi cers to locate the subject on the ground and wait for further offi cers to assist in the lifting process.

Offi cer 1 informs the subject that he/she will be taken to the ground and they will be required to bend at the knees. On a count of three the subject is instructed to bend his/her knees. The offi cers remain in contact with the subject at all times, their arms extended using the shuffl e step forward to control the weight of the subject until the subject has placed the knees on the fl oor.


Once in this position Offi cer 1 informs the subject that he/she is going to be taken to the ground. The subject is also informed to turn their face to the side. On a count of three the offi cers step forward with their outside leg and bend from the knees keeping the back in a neutral position until the subject is on the ground.


Carrying the prisoner/subject

It may, on some occasions, be absolutely necessary to physically carry the subject instead of lifting and then walking with them. This may include, but is not limited to, situations where:

• prisoner/subject conduct is such that it is not possible or practicable to lift them in order that they can walk with the offi cers.

• the prisoner/subject is so impaired through drink/drugs that they are unable to assist the offi cers in the lifting process and/or cannot safely walk with the offi cers.

• the Prisoner/subject has such a disability or injuries that they are unable to assist the offi cers in the lifting process and/or cannot safely walk with the offi cers.

• for the safety of offi cers and the prisoner/subject it is absolutely necessary to move them from their present position as rapidly as possible.

Offi cers must ensure that there at least three ERBs applied before lifting and carrying a subject. When carrying a subject in this manner it is important to ensure that the subject is carried feet fi rst and not head fi rst.

The carrying of the subject and the commands are co-ordinated by Offi cer 1 who is situated on the left shoulder of the prisoner/subject. (In this case the female offi cer)

The offi cer on the right shoulder is Offi cer 2The offi cer on the left leg is Offi cer 3 The offi cer on the right leg is Offi cer 4

All offi cers kneel at the sides of the prisoner/subject. Two on the left and two on the right of the prisoner/subject facing towards the feet.

Note that Offi cers 1 and 2 are adopting the “Secure” and “Locked” position on the handles and the Velcro compression strap on the ERB that is situated around the upper torso.

Offi cers 3 and 4 hold the handles of the ERBs situated at the midsection and the legs.

Offi cer 1 is responsible for numbering off the team. This process is important as it ensures that all offi cers are in the secure and locked position and the team are in position to lift. Offi cer 1 does this by tapping each offi cer in sequence to ensure they are aware of their number.

When their hold is secure as per the positions adopted each offi cer indicates this by stating, “Number 1 secure and locked”, “Number 2 secure and locked” and so on until all offi cers have so indicated.

Following this procedure Offi cer 1 will countdown to lift by saying “On my command lift after 3.” The offi cer will then count – “1-2-3- lift”.


All offi cers then lift the prisoner/subject into the carry position.

Important

When moving the subject offi cers walk in the direction of the feet. In this way, if there is accidental contact with an object the risk of injury is reduced as the feet make contact rather than the head.

As offi cers negotiate a door they will count their number and indicate “Number 4 clear” and so on until they are all through the door.

Placing the subject on the ground

When offi cers have reached the desired location they may either:

• place the offender on the ground or • lower the legs of the subject until the feet come into contact with the ground and then

stand them upright.

Directing to prone.

Offi cer 1 will give all commands. Offi cer 1 will inform the subject that he/she will be taken to the fl oor and to turn their face to the side. Offi cer 1 will they say “on my count of three prepare to lower, 1-2-3 lower”. On this command the team will step forward with their outside leg and bend the leg nearest to the prisoner, keeping their back in a neutral position at all times.


Standing procedure.

Alternatively the prisoner can be stood upright.

Offi cer 1 will always be the lead offi cer, giving commands to offi cers and communicating with the subject. Offi cers 3 and 4 will be responsible for lowering the feet and Offi cers 1 and 2 will be responsible for supporting the upper body and taking the subject to the standing position. Offi cer 1 will give commands. Number 3 and 4 prepare to lower – lower. On the command Offi cers 3 and 4 lower the feet and Offi cers 1 and 2 bring the subject to standing. It will then be necessary for Offi cers 1 and 2 to change their grip.


Walking with the subject

With a single ERB applied to the upper limbs, or with a second ERB applied to the midsection, the subject will be capable of walking at normal pace. Offi cers will use the “Locked” and “Secure” position with their hands and will ensure the subject does not trip, fall or deliberately self-harm by throwing themself to the ground or thrusting themselves against a hard surface.

Whenever an ERB is applied to the legs this will always be at the knees. This restricts the ability of the subject to kick and execute gross motor skill actions with the legs. Offi cers must therefore understand that, with an ERB applied at that site, the subject will not be capable of walking at normal pace. The length of stride is much reduced and the subject will be almost shuffl ing along at a very slow pace. Offi cers will therefore adjust their pace to that of the subject and prevent them from falling, tripping or deliberate self harm by throwing themselves to the ground or thrusting themself against a hard surface.

Walking with ERB applied to legs and arms. Note the short pace of the subject and the position of the offi cer’s hands to “Locked” and “Secure” on both sides.

Offi cers should continue to communicate with the subject, indicating they are supporting him and that there is no rush.

In line with other force training in the care of subjects, offi cers must continue to monitor the prisoner throughout arrest and control procedures and must fully brief the custody offi cer regarding restraint techniques and equipment on arrival of the subject at the custody suite.

Subjects must not be left unaccompanied once the ERB has been applied.

Placement into transport

The following photographs show the procedure for placing a subject into a vehicle for transport to the custody suite.

The use of the ERB should be considered for the transport of such subjects in vehicles where the offi cer’s perception is that:

• violence or resistance will be exhibited by the subject in an attempt to prevent their being placed into the police vehicle.

• violence or resistance will continue to be offered whilst in transit to the police station or other location.

• violence or resistance will be exhibited by the subject in an attempt to prevent their being taken from the vehicle and moved into the custody suite.

Ideally if the subject is still resisting the offi cers attempts to control them then it would be best practice to transport the subject in a Police Support Unit van. However there may be the occasion where a PSU van is unavailable and therefore the subject can be transported in a Police car. So the following text and photographs will demonstrate the procedure for transporting a subject in a PSU van and a Police saloon vehicle.

Where a subject has an ERB applied to the arms experience has shown that the handcuffs are extremely uncomfortable when the subject is seated in the transport. Because of this offi cers, where practicable, will undertake to apply a second ERB to the midsection and then remove the handcuffs before a subject is transported in a police vehicle. When the prisoner is removed from the vehicle offi cers may consider it necessary to re-apply the handcuffs in the event of continued violent or resistant prisoner conduct.

Where the ERB is applied only to the legs the handcuffs will remain applied.

When transported in a vehicle an offi cer will remain with the subject to monitor their conduct and safety. The subject will be placed in a seat belt. In line with other force training in the care of subjects offi cers must continue to monitor the prisoner throughout all arrest and control


procedures and must fully brief the custody offi cer regarding restraint techniques and equipment used on arrival of the subject at the custody suite.

During all procedures at vehicles, offi cers should continue to communicate with the subject indicating they are supporting him and that there is no rush.

The following photographs show the procedure for placing a subject in a saloon car.

Remember to remove cuffs, where practicable, before placing the subject into the vehicle.

1. The subject is located at the rear of the vehicle. Offi cer 2 leans over the car door to ensure the subject is as close to the car as possible.


2. Both offi cers then assist the subject to sit in the vehicle. Note the offi cer’s protecting the head against impact from the edge of the roof of the car.

3. The offi cer inside the vehicle then uses the handles of the midsection ERB to pull the subject onto the rear seat of the vehicle.

4. The offi cer on the outside of the vehicle then feeds the legs of the subject into the foot well of the vehicle. The subject is now seated in the rear seat, facing forwards.


5. The seat belt is secured and the offi cer remains in the rear of the vehicle to monitor the subject.


Removal from transport

Following the transportation process the subject must now be removed from the vehicle. The following procedure explains the removal process.

1. The seat belt is removed. The feet of the subject are moved from the foot well to outside of the vehicle by the offi cers outside the vehicle, causing the subject to pivot in his/her seat.

2. With the assistance of the offi cer inside the vehicle the offi cer on the outside of the vehicle moves the subject forward until their feet are placed on the ground.

3. The subject is then pulled by the offi cers outside the vehicle and pushed by the offi cer inside the vehicle into the standing position.

4. The offi cers use the primary and secondary handles to assist the subject in moving from the seated position inside the vehicle to the standing position outside the vehicle.

Where offi cers consider it necessary they may wish to re-apply handcuffs at this stage.

To move the subject offi cers will then adopt the “Secure” and “Locked” position to walk the subject into the custody block.

In the event that the subject remains non-compliant and will not walk with the offi cers it may be necessary to carry them in accordance with the procedure shown previously in this document.


In line with other force training in the care of subjects offi cers must continue to monitor the prisoner throughout arrest and control procedures and must fully brief the custody offi cer regarding restraint techniques and equipment on arrival of the prisoner/subject at the custody suite.

Subjects must not be left unaccompanied once the ERB has been applied.

Transportation process – Police Support Unit vehicle placement

When placing a subject in a Police Support Unit vehicle it is important to remember that the subject is located in through the side door of the PSU van. It is also important to ensure, as with force policy, that the subject is never left alone whilst in a PSU van. It would not be necessary to the remove the handcuffs in this situation as no weight is transferred onto the subject’s wrists.

1. The subject is located as close to the side entrance as is possible. Offi cers 1 & 2 remain in contact with the subject whilst offi cer 3 or 4 enters the van ready to aid the location process.

2. The subject is then instructed to sit on the edge of the van step.


3. The offi cer inside the van takes hold of the primary handles of the mid section ERB and pulls the subject towards the corner of the seat whilst Offi cers 1 and 2 help by taking hold of the leg ERB and lift and swing the subject’s legs into the van.

4. The subject is held in position between the legs of the offi cer inside the vehicle.

Removal procedure

On arrival at the custody block the process is repeated, this time in reverse to remove the subject from the vehicle.

1. The offi cer inside the vehicle utilises the primary handles of the mid section ERB to help slide the subject towards the edge of the Van. Offi cers 1 and 2 take hold of the leg ERB and slide the subject out towards the edge of the van.


2. With the subject sitting on the edge of the van Offi cers 1 and 2 take hold of the primary handles of the upper body ERB and establish their locked and secure position. Offi cer 1 then gives the command for the subject to stand. The subject can then either be walked or carried into the custody block.


Safe removal of the ERB - standing

When it is appropriate to remove the ERB from the subject this may be undertaken in the standing position where the offi cers consider that it is safe to do so. In the event that the subject still represents a threat to the safety of offi cers during such removal then offi cers may choose to undertake removal in the prone position.

1. With the subject standing Offi cer 2 continues with the “Locked” and ”Secure” position. Offi cer 1 places his inside foot nearest the subject on top of the subjects foot. He then places his inside shoulder into the leg of the subject and takes hold of the primary handles in their hand.

2. Offi cer 1 then removes the ERBs. The ERB securing the knees is removed fi rst. The offi cer completes this by releasing the Velcro compression strap and pulling it out of the “D” ring. As he does this note that he has placed his shoulder against the thigh of the prisoner/subject to prevent assault from kicking.

3. As he removes the belt he will declare – “Belt Clear – legs” to make the other offi cers aware it has been removed.

The offi cer will then move up the body and remove the other belt(s) located at the midsection and/or upper limbs.

4. As the offi cer removes the ERB located at the midsection he will declare - “Belt Clear – midsection”


5. As the offi cer removes the ERB from the upper limbs he will declare – “Belt clear – arms”


Safe removal of the ERB - prone

There will be occasions when a subject remains so combative, or represents such a risk to offi cer safety, that the ERB will have to be removed in the prone position.

If this is the case offi cers will adopt a similar approach to that of the safe cell exit within their handcuffi ng programme.

A mattress will fi rst be placed on the fl oor of the cell.

1. The subject is carried into the cell and is placed on the mattress in the prone position, head facing towards the cell door. Each offi cer will step forward on their outside leg and lower on the command of Offi cer 1.

2. Once on the ground Offi cers 1 and 2 remain at the head end of the subject and adopt the ground pin position. Offi cer 3 or 4 will then start to remove the ERBs, starting at the knees. As soon as the knee ERB is removed this offi cer can then exit the cell or help to search the subject. Offi cers 1 and 2 now remove the mid and upper body ERBs.


3. The offi cers will then establish the ground pin position prior to removing the cuffs. The handcuffs are removed (as per handcuffi ng training). The offi cer responsible for the cuffs will place his/her cuffs back into the pouch prior to leaving the cell.

4. The offi cer who remains in the cell with the subject stands up and places his/her foot on the shoulder of the subject whilst maintaining the straight-arm bars. This stops the subject from moving across the fl oor towards the cell exit. The offi cer looks over her/his shoulder to make sure that the exit is clear and exits the cell.

Following this procedure offi cers must brief the custody offi cer and ensure an entry is made in the custody record, their pocket books and the use of force report form. It may be that the custody offi cer would wish to witness the execution of this safe cell exit technique.


Back arm restraint

The ERB normally fi ts about 80% of the general population. However you may come across individuals for whom, because of muscle or body mass, it is impossible to utilise the technique described earlier in this document. In this case the back arm restraint technique should be employed before applying the upper body ERB.

1. Offi cers deploy the ERB and place the main body of the ERB between the arm and the subject’s body.

2. Offi cer 2 places the compression strap about an inch above the subject’s elbow and then passes the strap back to Offi cer 1.


3. Offi cer 1 places the compression strap through the “D” ring and hands it back to Offi cer 2. Offi cer 1 then takes hold of the compression strap as Offi cer 2 pulls the compression strap and presses it to position.

Note that in the back arm restraint the compression strap is not pulled as tightly as the upper body wrap. NEVER lift a subject with the back arm restraint as this may result in injury.

The use of the ERB to prevent biting and spitting

Where an offi cer considers it to be absolutely necessary to prevent a subject assaulting an offi cer or other innocent persons by spitting at or biting them they can use the ERB to prevent this type of assaultive conduct. This is a common scenario inside police vehicles.

In these photographs the offi cer has applied the ERB to the subject to prevent such conduct. This has been achieved by lightly wrapping the ERB directly around the face of the prisoner/subject.

NOTE: The Velcro compression strap is not deployed. The offi cer merely wraps the body of the ERB around the face and holds the primary and secondary handles at the rear of the head. No pressure is applied.


ERB restraint techniques - care of the subject General

• Following application of the ERB offi cer must not leave the subject unaccompanied.• Offi cers must continue to monitor the subject until the ERB is removed. • Following application of the ERB offi cers will check that they are able to insert two/three

fi ngers comfortably under the body of the ERB between the device and the constrained limb/torso.

• Offi cers should not apply the device over injured limbs or over areas of skin injury unless absolutely necessary to maintain control and prevent offi cer injury or further offender injury.

• In the event that it is necessary to carry the prisoner/subject there must be 3 ERBs applied to give suffi cient control and support for the safety of both the subject and the offi cers.

• Offi cers must continue to monitor the prisoner throughout arrest and control procedures and must fully brief the custody offi cer regarding restraint techniques and equipment on arrival of the prisoner/subject at the custody suite.

• Whenever a prisoner/subject is lifted and walks with an ERB applied offi cers will always secure the prisoner/subject by holding the primary handles of the ERB and the Velcro compression strap. This is to safeguard the prisoner subject against injury from falls or trips or to prevent them from causing deliberate self-harm. This method of holding the prisoner/subject is known as “Locked and Secure” position.

• Whenever a prisoner/subject is carried using the ERB offi cers will always use the “Locked and secure” method of holding the primary handles and the Velcro compression strap.

Medical Issues

• In line with other force training in the care of subjects once secured they must be moved from the prone face down position as soon as practicable.

• Offi cers will need to loosen or remove the device if the prisoner shows signs of medical distress such as air hunger, cyanosis, confusion, or a reduced level of consciousness.

• Maintain a high level of awareness regarding positional asphyxia. Individuals that have been, or are, under the infl uence of drugs and alcohol are exhausted or still struggling are particularly at risk.

• Where practicable the ERB will be removed within half an hour of application. In exceptional circumstances, when suspects cannot be delivered to the custody suite within half an hour or prisoner conduct prevents its safe removal, offi cers should check that the prisoner has not lost sensation in the limbs. Should this be the case then the offi cers should re-check the Velcro compression strap to confi rm that it is not excessively tight and, if necessary, loosen it slightly. This information must be placed in the offi cer’s pocket notebook/statement or the incident log should be updated to evidence that the offi cers have carried out the appropriate checks.

• Offi cers need to check that the restrained subject is able to continue normal respiration after application of the device This is done by instructing the restrained subject to take a breath and confi rming that the device does not prevent the individual from moving the diaphragm to allow normal breathing. Offi cers may see the belly area below the body of the ERB expand and contract.




03000 111 222

CONFLICT MANAGEMENT


Edged Weapon Awareness

7-1DEFENSIVE TACTICS TRAININGEdged Weapon Awareness

ContentsIntroduction ........................................................................................... 7-2Types of edged weapons .......................................................................... 7-4Survival mindset ..................................................................................... 7-5Tactical considerations ............................................................................. 7-5

Danger cues ................................................................................... 7-5Proxemics and the reactionary gap ............................................................ 7-6Response options .................................................................................... 7-7Empty hand knife defence skills ................................................................ 7-9Principles of knife fi ghting skills ................................................................ 7-10

Types of cuts .................................................................................. 7-11Stances ......................................................................................... 7-11Lines of attack ................................................................................ 7-12

Tactical knife defence ............................................................................. 7-12Practical techniques......................................................................... 7-12


Types of knife grip .................................................................................. 7-18Knife defence principles ................................................................... 7-18Target areas ................................................................................... 7-19

Defensive stance .................................................................................... 7-20Movement ...................................................................................... 7-20Pat - Wrap - Attack ......................................................................... 7-20Pat against a straight thrust ............................................................. 7-21Pat against a diagonal line of attack .................................................. 7-21Pat against lateral slashes ................................................................ 7-22Wrap – control the delivery system ................................................... 7-22Attack ........................................................................................... 7-22Attack 1 – thigh/groin area .............................................................. 7-23Attack 2 – rib area .......................................................................... 7-24 Attack 3 – throat/facial area ............................................................. 7-24Attack 4 - head strikes .................................................................... 7-25

7-2 DEFENSIVE TACTICS TRAININGEdged Weapon Awareness

IntroductionAn increasing problem for Police Offi cers and, indeed, their major fear is that of edged weapons. As society evolves more and more criminals are turning to knives and other edged weapons in order to commit crime or resist attempts to arrest them during or following the event.

The subject of knife defence for Police Offi cers in the U.K. is a relatively new one. Without a capacity to resort immediately to a fi rearm the average Police Offi cer in the U.K. is probably more in need of an effective spontaneous knife defence programme than his/her counterpart overseas.

At the outset there should be a clear understanding that Police Offi cers should not be expected to attempt to control a person armed with a knife by using empty hand skills, unless it is absolutely necessary.

Unfortunately research shows that the majority of knife attacks on offi cers are so spontaneous that there is no opportunity for the offi cer to respond with a baton, TASER or fi rearm if they are carrying one.

Edged weapons are amongst the most ancient of implements used by human adversaries engaged in interpersonal confl ict. Their use tends to culminate in the premature extinction of one, and sometimes both, parties. Unfortunately the potential lethality of the blade is not always realised or taken into account when confronting a knife-wielding aggressor. There is a commonly-held view that a person armed with a knife is less dangerous than a person armed with a fi rearm. The truth is that within their practical ranges both instruments are capable of fatal life-terminating wounds. In the UK knives are the most commonly used weapons in committing murders.

Research uncovers some interesting facts:

• edged weapons are the most commonly used instruments for killing people (7 in 20) (Home Offi ce Research Study 89 - Personal Violence)

• in half the incidents of muggings on men the offender is armed with a sharp instrument such as knife or screwdriver. (British Crime Survey - 1992)

This differs from research from the U.S. and Canada which shows that the most commonly used weapons are fi rearms followed by knives and other edged weapons.

FBI statistics show that edged weapons are responsible for 3% of all armed attacks on Police Offi cers, whilst fi rearms attacks account for 4% (these are assaults which end in fatality).

A further interesting statistic is one that shows that, of persons who are shot, roughly 10% die of their wounds whilst, of those stabbed, 30% will die from their wounds! There are various training packages in Police Agencies throughout the world aimed at giving offi cers easily usable skills when faced with a spontaneous knife assault. Those programmes have used research, gathered on both a local and national basis, around which to build their tactics and advice.

The following facts emerged during this research:

• the most popular assault technique utilised by the attacker was found to be the hammer strike - either straight down or diagonally. This has been confi rmed by research undertaken by Dr. BLEETMAN (Heartlands Hospital, Birmingham) in 1999.

• the highest risk target area on the human body is the left upper chest (most offenders being right handed and delivering a downwards diagonal strike)

• the victim tends to squat in an effort to take a path which offers perceived escape. However this squatting process only enhances the assailant’s ability in thrusting the blade deeply into the victim.

• police Offi cers seldom saw the edged weapon that penetrated their body. They failed to recognise the danger cues, owing to faulty perception.


• criminals are far more familiar with their knives than Police Offi cers are with their weapons.• knife attacks were found to be exceptionally accurate, to penetrate deeper than some

bullets, creating remarkable permanent cavities and rip through numerous organs in one stroke.

In reality, within their respective ranges knives are superior to fi rearms as far as lethality is concerned.

Within its range:

• it never runs out of ammunition• it never jams• it never misfi res• it never misses the target• it cuts bone, tendon, muscle, arteries, veins with one thrust• knife wounds bring about sudden shock, pain and extended wound channels• it has better stopping capabilities• it is psychologically defeating• it has superior concealment capabilities• it occupies a permanent wound channel until extracted, at which time, if the blade is

withdrawn from a lung, consciousness is rapidly lost due to pneumothorax.

Edged weapons are considered to be knives of various blade dimensions and designs. However when the blade becomes an implement of destruction the knife conforms to the concept of a lethal weapon. Offi cers’ perceptions of an edged weapon need to attune to the fact that such weapons are to be found everywhere. Items such as toothbrushes, pencils, pens, screwdrivers, spoons and forks have all been used, successfully, to kill other persons.

Anything which can be used to pierce fl esh and sink into another person’s body should be regarded as an edged weapon.

Further research into Edged Weapons by Calibre Press showed that, since 1980, the number of people routinely carrying knives in America has increased by 92%. In addition 80% of offi cers have removed edged weapons from subjects and 30% of offi cers have encountered resistance from an offender armed with an edged weapon.

In two Canadian Police agencies, where research was conducted over a 1 month period, they found a 35% and 13% increase in knife calls (Peel Region and Victoria P.D. 1991 - 92)

Research from Scotland (Interview by Scottish Defensive Tactics Offi cer with Dr. J. CASSIDY - Consultant Forensic Pathologist - Glasgow University shows that:

• typical depth of stab wounds, in homicide cases, is through the ribcage into the heart.• main types of wound-causing death are single stab wounds.• even short-bladed knives can penetrate the abdomen by 8 to 10 cm.• 3cm allows penetration of the ribs.• 4cm allows penetration of the heart.• due to the small surface area the amount of force per unit area is TONS per square inch.• the homicide rate would be much higher from stab wounds were it not for good paramedic

skills.• many people do not realise they have been stabbed until they see blood or feel faint. They

think they have been punched (this also concurs with American research)• 1992 was the busiest homicide year in the West of Scotland with 92 recorded - 56% of

which were as a result of stabbing.

Unfortunately statistics relating to the use of knives to attack Police Offi cers are not as readily available in the U.K. compared with other countries but it is likely, because fi rearms are not readily available here, that we have even more of a knife culture.


These statistics show the importance of training offi cers in how to deal with edged weapons. An offi cer’s ability to deal with such a situation will be based on his/her TRAINING AND EXPERIENCE. Experience is something not easily acquired. However proper training can save lives by preparing offi cers physically and psychologically.

Types of edged weaponsWhen edged weapons are discussed by Police Offi cer the usual image is that of a large butcher’s knife in the hands of a crazed individual. This is a narrow perception which can cause Police Offi cers to miss danger cues and fail to identify an edged weapon. An edged weapon is defi ned as “any item that can pierce or puncture the skin”.

An edged weapon can range from razor blades to credit cards, pens and pencils as well as knives, broken bottles and beer glasses.

Various types of edged weapons are now easily available and can be purchased both from the internet, sporting goods shops and through mail order catalogues.

Concealed and unusual edged weapons

• Lipstick knife• Credit Card knife• Push or punch knives• Walking stick (sword stick)• Small craft knives• Pen knives• Lighter knives

Our use of force statistics clearly show that the edged weapon faced by most offi cers within Northants is a kitchen/carving knife with a blade between 5 and 11 inches long. The second most likely edged weapon to be confronted with is a broken glass or broken bottle. The highest risk incident type is the domestic dispute. The highest risk role within the Northamptonshire Police is that of General Duties.

Types of attacker

The types of individuals that will use edged weapons have been divided into two groups: unskilled and skilled. Regardless of the division of these groups both are equally as deadly.

Unskilled

The unskilled individual uses the knife to give them power and advantage in a confrontation. These individuals will usually display the knife by waving it around and thereby telegraphing their movements or intentions.

Skilled

Individuals in this group have received some form of training. This training may have been from a military background or from fellow inmates in prison. A further modern worrying trend is that of martial arts instructors who hold open classes, for anyone to attend, to learn knife-fi ghting skills. These classes, normally of one or two day duration, are aimed more at making money than assessing the suitability of the persons they are instructing.

Additionally there are now available freely circulating manuals on knife fi ghting skills.

Such individuals will usually work the knife with their body movement, protecting and concealing the knife until immediately prior to its use, giving the victim insuffi cient time to react to the deadly threat.


Survival mindsetIn any use of force confrontation it is not only important to be physically prepared but also, often more importantly, to be psychologically prepared. This preparation should start with mental role-playing prior to arriving at the situation. This exercise creates a particular mental preparedness that allows an offi cer to react, based upon a pre-determined strategy. Studies have shown that this mind role-playing actually reduces physical reaction time.

In an edged weapon confrontation this becomes increasingly more important owing to the often spontaneous use and high level of threat that exists. The offi cer should be able to mentally see the encounter and appropriately respond with the amount of force necessary to control the threat.

We must not forget that the offender has already established his mental mindset. He has mentally prepared to use the weapon and has also the physical element of surprise. Knowing these two advantages offi cers must develop the mental edge to survive and become skilled in dealing with these confrontations.

During the physical encounter the mindset of the offi cer must be to fi ght to survive the encounter. Offi cers must realise this. Their goal should not be to prevent themselves from getting cut. There is a real likelihood that this will happen. However it is unlikely that the wound will be fatal (3% of fatal attacks on offi cers occur as a result of edged weapons - FBI stats.).

Should an injury be sustained in a knife confrontation the mindset should be for the offi cer to continue fi ghting to survive the encounter, using whatever control methods are necessary.

Tactical considerationsDanger cues

Prior to the display of an edged weapon there may be several indicators which could assist the offi cer in identifying a threat:

• hidden hands - in jacket or trousers pocket.• hands in a palming position.• wandering eyes - escape route or target acquisition glances.• glazed stare.• knife sheath unsnapping - the sound of Velcro.• clicking of blade locking.• subtle or furtive hand movements.• sudden movement with outstretched arm(s).• stance.• subject profi le (violent or weapons marker).

Should any of these danger cues, or any other factors, suggest an edged weapon confrontation the immediate response of the offi cer should be to create distance and attempt control through tactical communications.

These danger cues form part of the threat assessment process in determining the degree of danger that exists. Without good awareness skills these danger signs are either overlooked or, worse still, ignored.

Body Armour

Police body armour is of two major types. The anti-stab armour which should provide protection against both slashing and stabbing type attacks. Offi cers should remain aware, however, that there are many vulnerable areas that are not protected by such armour and should guard against a sense of invulnerability.


Ballistic body armour is not designed to give protection against knife attacks, particularly the stabbing type attack. This type of body armour may reduce the chance of being injured, but a sharp knife can still penetrate it. An element of protection is offered against slashing type attacks because they do not penetrate a small area of the armour.

A further consideration with body armour is that, whilst it offers initial protection, the offi cer needs to be shown techniques to control a knife-wielding offender and end the confrontation.

Barriers

The only way an edged weapon can cause injury is if the subject can deliver the weapon to the offi cer.

As it is extremely rare for the attacker to throw the knife the subject must physically engage the offi cer to cause him/her injury.

The best method of preventing the offender from engaging the offi cer is to place some form of barrier between the two. Any available object should be used. Preferably the barrier should allow visibility of the offender whilst still affording protection to the offi cer. Where prior planning or time allows PSU shields can be used. We must bear in mind that these are for protection and that they do not, in themselves, control the offender. Tactics must also be trained which allow the offi cer(s) to overcome the resistance and achieve control.

Proxemics and the reactionary gapThe reactionary gap - or safe distance - is discussed in most empty hands manuals. The adoption of a reactionary gap allows greater time for the offi cer to respond and reduces the chance of a spontaneous assault. In an edged weapon confrontation this gap has the same benefi ts. However the distances change signifi cantly.

In any encounter attempts are made to establish a gap of about six feet between the offi cer and offender. The offi cer then breaches that distance under his/her terms (not the offender’s) to achieve control.

Once an edged weapon is presented this gap must change. The distance which is considered safe may change depending on a number of variables:

• existing barriers.• offi cer is responding with empty hands.• offi cer is responding with PAVA/baton.• offi cer is responding with Taser/fi rearm.• tactical movement.• escape routes.• presence of other offi cers or members of the public.• is the encounter taking place indoors or outdoors? (70% occur indoors).

Many studies have been completed regarding safe distance in edged weapon confrontations. Probably the most quoted and copied is that of Sgt. Dennis TUELLER of Salt Lake City Police Department in 1983. This practical research shows that a man armed with a knife could close a gap of 21 feet and deliver a fatal thrust in 1.5 seconds on average.

This emphasises the need for awareness training and crisis movement skills.

It is unrealistic that, if a subject becomes assaultive, the offi cer will remain stationary whilst reacting to the threat. By incorporating lateral and rearward movement the offi cer’s reaction time will increase, giving time for better defensive measures.

All these aforementioned issues are of particular importance and should be considered in preparing offi cer for edged weapon confrontations.


Response optionsThe edged weapon confrontation is probably the most controversial area in considering use of force response options.

The option selected will be based upon the level of threat as assessed by the offi cer, the spontaneity of the assault, the distance between the offi cer and the assailant, any barriers available and the possibility of back up assistance from other offi cers. Other impact factors such as age, sex, size and skill level of the offender are also considerations for the offi cer.

Tactical communications

In any use of force confrontation tactical communications usually becomes an integral part. It may be used on its own or in conjunction with other force options.

In an identifi ed edged weapon confrontation (weapon produced or shown) the only time tactical communications should be used in isolation would be if a barrier was in existence that did not allow the subject access to the offi cer. An example of this may be a prisoner secured in a cell who has armed himself with a knife.

Empty hand skills

The use of empty hand skills to control a subject with a knife or other edged weapon is an extreme and life threatening risk. The risk of injury or fatality is so great that even highly skilled martial artists would not engage with empty hands in a knife fi ght, from choice.

Unfortunately for Police Offi cers many edged weapon confrontations occur spontaneously and do not allow for any other options. The selection of empty hand techniques to control a knife attacker should only be from necessity, for the purpose of surviving the confrontation.

Baton

History has always had baton instructors teaching methods of disarming a subject armed with a knife.

Whilst the use of a baton is preferable to empty hands skills, in terms of offi cer safety, it is an option that should only be used if the offi cer is not carrying a Taser/fi rearm

When the hierarchy of weapons is examined most experts, worldwide, agree that the progression of deadliness is from baton to knife to gun. If this is the case then why should Police Offi cers attempt to control a knife-wielding attacker with a lower level of force? In order to accomplish subject control it necessitates an offi cer using a level of force greater than the subject’s level of resistance.

Research has shown that when an offi cer with a baton confronts a subject they will normally respond in one of two ways to overcome the offi cer. These methods are not only inherent to skilled fi ghters but are also instinctive responses by average individuals. The responses were quickly identifi ed in more than one research project.

1. The subject moves quickly to avoid the baton strike and counters with the knife.2. The subject sacrifi ces the off arm thereby rendering the baton useless against the counter

attack with the knife.

In both cases the offi cer is at an extreme disadvantage and once in close proximity to the subject the knife will quickly become overpowering.

A baton should be used in circumstances where no Taser/fi rearm is available to control a subject.


Other factors of importance are:

• baton techniques for deadly force situations apply.• use of Tactical Communications should be employed.• protective shields should be made available, if possible.• back-up offi cers should be in attendance.

Taser/fi rearms

Where an offi cer is armed and faces a subject with knife then the only reasonable option is that of the Taser/fi rearm. If the offi cer attempts to resolve it using any other method, and is injured, there is a distinct possibility that the offender will then take the offi cers Taser/fi rearm and use it against him/her.

The Taser/fi rearm should be drawn and pointed and the offi cer should commence immediate tactical communications to end the confrontation.

At the same time as the Taser/fi rearm is drawn diagonal or lateral movement should be used to allow for a reactionary gap of at least 10 feet. Whenever possible barriers should also be placed between the offi cer and the subject.

The decision to shoot a person will be based on the offi cer’s perception of the threat, the ability of the person to deliver that threat, and the intent involved. A subject who is lunging at an offi cer with a knife in his hand has put these factors into place.

For too long the threat of edged weapons has not been taken seriously enough. More people are killed in the U.K. with knives and other edged weapons than by any other means.

Search and weapon recovery

Once a subject has been controlled he should be moved away from the weapon prior to physical engagement. If this is not possible the fi rst priority will be to separate the subject and the weapon on engagement.

Never allow a subject to hand over a knife (extremely fast techniques exist for causing severe injury under these circumstances). Always have the subject place the knife on the ground and have him/her move away from the weapon.

Offi cers should never assume that because they have found one weapon there are no more. A full search should continue.

Disengagement

Whilst this is not a use of force option it is still a reasonable response, with the following considerations:

• there is no immediate threat to life• distance and time permit• the ability to secure the area exists


Empty hand knife defence skillsTactical considerations and system design

Whilst it is not a desirable option statistics show that there are many occasions where time and distance will not allow an offi cer to draw their baton (or their Taser/fi rearm if they have one) when confronted by a person armed with an edged weapon.

This part of the manual is dedicated to dealing with the situation where spontaneous assault occurs and the offi cer must respond with empty hand skills. The goal is not to control the subject - but to survive the encounter.

Common tactics to avoid

A standby of both Police and Military training has been the X-block in which the knife arm is intercepted by crossed arms, followed by a joint lock. An experienced knife-fi ghter will easily defeat this by trapping the arms with their free hand. The attacker is then in a position to infl ict serious damage by severing tendons and arteries of the victim.

Any attempt to grasp the offender’s wrists is likely to be countered with a rotation of the subject’s knife hand, which allows them to slash the victim’s wrist, hand and arm, no matter how the wrist is held.

Such techniques are not instinctive and will not be retained under stress.

Edged weapon defensive tactics systems are taught by many agencies throughout North America. Martial Arts systems also include many knife skills. One study (Victoria Police Dept - Canada - Constable D. TULAUR) found that many of those systems, whilst practical in the training environment, were totally unrealistic in the operational arena. Most systems were fl awed in some fundamental way:

• most assumed that the defender knew the attacker possessed and edged weapon.• most techniques were too complicated for the average offi cer to learn.• most neglected the free limbs of the attacker.• techniques taught concentrated on controlling the knife and hand, rather than the delivery

system - particularly the elbow and upper arm.• techniques were taught against static attacks.

System design

Further research into edged weapon attacks shows that:

• in most attacks the defender is already involved in the physical encounter before they realise that a knife is involved.

• most defenders see a thrust or slash with a knife as just a straight or swinging punch.

These facts agree with a 1992 study in which 85 offi cers were videotaped defending themselves in a surprise mock edged weapon scenario. Out of the 85 offi cers only 3 actually saw the knife in the Instructor’s hand at the onset of the assault. Only ten realised they had been stabbed repeatedly during the confrontation. A further observation was that most offi cers tended to back away from the threat, which usually resulted in the attacker closing very quickly on the offi cer. Most scenarios ended with both parties on the ground.

This common phenomenon of backing away under survival stress results from the visual systems deterioration of the peripheral fi eld to attain more information regarding the threat stimulus. Since the brain is demanding more information to deal with the threat the offi cer will almost invariably retreat to widen the peripheral fi eld.

The failure to recall information at high stress events is also common. The brain’s normal ability to process information is focused on specifi c items. Therefore additional cues (knives),


which would normally be processed, are lost. This explains why offi cers cannot recall seeing or identifying specifi c facts which were relatively close to the threat. In considering this type of research it is important to include two components in designing a knife defence system that offi cers are capable of utilising under threat:

• awareness strategies.• realistic hands-on defensive tactics following the” SAFE” rule.

Simple All physical skills must be simple - based on gross motor skill patterns.

Adaptable Techniques must be adaptable to any situation in which the offi cers may fi nd themselves.

Fast/fl exible Techniques must give the offi cer the ability to end the physical confrontation as

quickly as possible, having regard to offi cer safety and survival.

Effective Techniques must be effective and usable for all offi cers, whether the attacker is skilled or unskilled.

Principles of knife fi ghting skills1. Respect the blade

The person who attacks a Police Offi cer with an edged weapon has two distinct advantages over the offi cer:

Psychological

The attacker has already chosen to use the weapon ruthlessly.

Physical

The attacker usually has the advantage of making the fi rst move, before the offi cer realises that an edged weapon is involved.

2. Expect to get cut

In an edged weapon confrontation offi cers should expect to get cut and see blood. The objective is to survive the encounter. Offi cers must be conditioned to continue fi ghting despite injury.

3. Movement

The defender must move out of the line of attack. Movement is a primary principle of knife fi ghting.

4. Control the Delivery System

Offi cers must be taught to control the elbow and upper arm (the delivery system), rather than the hand and knife (both of which move too fast).

5. Attack the Attacker

Techniques must be shown which enable the offi cer to quickly neutralise the attacker. In attacking the offender offi cers have a mental mind-shift from prey to predator. Techniques must be swift and must be capable of stopping the attack or giving the offi cer time to disengage and draw baton, TASER or fi rearm.


Knife grips

To be able to deal effectively with a knife attack offi cers must have an understanding of the way knives are used. Generally knives are held in one of two grips:

Straight grip

In this grip the knife is held with the tip pointing forward. The cutting edge is usually down and the most common attacks from this grip are slashes and straight thrusts.

Inverted grip

The inverted grip has the point of the blade facing back or down. This grip generally offers fewer options of attack for the unskilled; however it allows the user to conceal the knife. The most common types of attack from this grip are downwards, either vertical or diagonal thrusts.

Types of cuts

The depth and length of injuries vary on how the knife is used:

Thrust This travels straight into the target point fi rst. When used it is the most lethal technique, penetrating vital organs, with small surface wounds.

Slash This uses a slicing action and leaves a long gaping wound ranging from a slight cut to a deep gash.

Flick The wrist action delivers small cuts, which impart little injury, but are psychologically damaging. Skilled knife fi ghters wishing to “soften up” a victim often use this technique.

Hack These are blocking actions using the knife, which leave small deep cuts.

Tear These techniques rip the fl esh to the bone leaving gaping wounds.

Stances

Whilst an unskilled fi ghter will sometimes hold a knife out in front of them to present a threat a skilled knife fi ghter is likely to adopt one of three stances:

Fighting stance

• Dominant foot forward• Straight Grip with arm retracted• Trapping hand to the front

Cover and tuck

• Dominant foot to the rear• Straight Grip with arm down• Trapping hand will cover the knife

Concealed stance

• Dominant foot forward• Straight Grip, with arm down• Knife concealed behind leg


Lines of attack

The lines of attack must also be included in any knife defence package. Research shows there are common lines:

• downwards - either diagonal or straight down• lateral slashes• straight thrusts - either high or low.

All these lines of attack follow gross motor skill movements which the human animal exhibits under stress. This is a particularly important facet of training.

Tactical knife defence Practical techniques

Practical techniques shown within this section are to be taught following instruction in the Unarmed Defensive Tactics Manual

Such previous training will give students knowledge in tactical positioning and proxemics as well as the Confl ict Management Model, which assists offi cers in determining reasonable use of force.

Tactical communications must also be used to best advantage.





The confl ict management model is divided into fi ve components:





Threat Assessment





Compliance




Passive resistance


Active resistance














Powers and Policies

Use of force Policy

The objective of Police use of force is to preserve the safety of offi cers, innocent persons and the subject (where practicable) by establishing control.



Powers










The use of force and must be justifi ed and reasonable otherwise it constitutes and assault and is therefore unlawful. It is not possible to give instructions to cover every eventuality but remember, there must be some objective basis for the decision.



A lawful interference with the individual’s rights human rights must be necessary and this depends upon the measure taken being proportionate to the legitimate aim pursued in respect of qualifi ed rights like Article 8. For example the lawful arrest or detention of a suspect pursues the legitimate aim of the prevention and detection of crime. If force is not used in this proportionate way then this may amount to a breach of Article 8 of the European convention on Human Rights. This Article guarantees not only the right to privacy, but also the right to physical integrity – the right not to be hurt in an arbitrary or unjustifi able way.

Article 2






It is therefore imperative that use of force reporting and statement making is undertaken in line with the training on such issues, relating the response directly to offender conduct and impact factors, as per the confl ict resolution model, indicating all the relevant circumstances that led to the use of lethal force. Regard must be had to the aim pursued; the dangers to life and limb inherent in the situation and the degree of risk that the force employed might result in the loss of life.

Tactical Options



Offi cer presence








Defensive Tactics


Less Lethal Options


Lethal/Deadly Force



Actions



Tactical communications

Communications skills are an integral part of any defensive tactics system, with experts worldwide considering that in excess of 90% of incidents of physical violence could be avoided with good tactical communications skills.

Such skills are dealt with, in-depth, in a separate document but this document includes advice for offi cers where violence is imminent.

Crisis communications skills should be viewed from three perspectives:

• Prior to physical engagement• During the encounter• Following the incident with control achieved

Prior to the encounter

• Use quiet tones• Avoid remarks of a threatening or intimidating nature• Use simple language with short phrases as in highly charged situations persons will fail to

understand complicated messages• Listen actively to what the other person is saying in an attempt to identify the problem

As an assault appears imminent change dialogue to shorter 1,2 or 3 word phrases - STOP - GET BACK - STAY BACK.

Volume should increase dramatically to add impact to the message.

Should the offi cer need to employ physical techniques following such verbal messages it will make a defence of those actions easier in the courtroom.

Witness perception is also enhanced: with there being clear indications to persons present that the offi cer’s intention was to resolve the situation without resorting to physical force.

During the encounter

Physical actions must obviously take priority but it may be possible to again give simple clear instructions - “KNIFE” thus alerting colleagues and members of the public that an edged weapon attack is happening “DROP THE KNIFE” “STOP FIGHTING”. This is again advantageous in terms of witness perception and court defensibility.

It is most important at this stage that messages are simple, with research showing that complicated verbal messages cause the sender to more than double physical reaction time.

Following the encounter

At this stage it is important to show an ability to de-escalate with a lowering of volume and attempt to reassure the offender, particularly if they have been in a prone position or have suffered pain.

Phrases such as “Relax - it’s over” or “Calm down and stop struggling” are suitable.


Information as to your next steps are also in order - “I’m now going to handcuff you” or, I’m going to sit or stand you up”.

Such information gives the prisoner the chance to comply with or assist offi cers in their actions.

Offi cers should never underestimate the power of good tactical communications. Experience has shown that sometimes what the offi cer says and not what they do makes the difference between a conviction and acquittal at court.

Types of knife gripThere are two types of knife grip, the straight grip and the inverted grip.

Straight grip

Inverted grip insert close up of hand & knife 0674

Knife defence principles

• Do not use empty hand skills against a knife attacker where other options exist (baton/Taser/fi rearm/incapacitants)

• Respect the blade - a penetration of 3cm can penetrate the chest and 4cm can penetrate the heart.

• Expect to get cut - do not stop - keep fi ghting, fi ght to survive• PAT - WRAP - ATTACK

Check the armControl the delivery systemAttack the attacker (multiple strikes)

• MoveFast dynamic movement

Your use of force is in response to a serious/aggravated resistance. As per the confl ict management model your use of force is to protect yourself and others and achieve control.


Target areas

In reacting to a knife attack offi cers should not attempt arm/wrist locks.

Reaction must be swift and dynamic, attacking targets, which disable or stun the offender.

Targets suitable in dealing with a knife assault include:

• the thigh (inside and outside)• the groin• the neck/throat• ribs and sternum• their eyes and face

Reasonableness in striking these targets is dependant on the fact that the offi cer is facing a threat which may carry with it the risk of serious injury or fatality.


Defensive stanceA defensive stance when facing a knife attacker reduces the target area available to him/her.

Offi cers should draw strong leg back: moving feet approximately shoulder width apart, with knees slightly bent. Weight should be evenly distributed between the legs.

Arms should be guarding, above the waist, in front of the body, with palms facing inwards.Figure insert 0550

Movement

Movement must be fast and dynamic to allow for the offi cer to avoid the knife.

There are three basic lines of attack:

• side to side (lateral slashing)• hammer type stabs (diagonally or straight down)• straight frontal (stabs)

Movement skills therefore are aimed at training offi cers to move rapidly backwards or sideways. Springing - using both legs has been found to be the simplest method of movement to teach.

Pat - Wrap - Attack

As well as avoiding the knife the offi cers should seek to establish control.

The fi rst element of this is to block the arm holding the knife. This is done with a single instinctive movement of the offi cer’s arms from the defensive stance.

Offi cers must not use the cross block. It is too slow to offer protection.

Offi cers must use slapping motions with open palms, as they are much faster than blocks with clenched fi sts.

Offi cers should concentrate on the upper area of the arm and elbow. The hand moves too quickly to be blocked or caught.


Pat against a straight thrust

The offi cer faces the subject in the knife defensive stance

The subject executes a straight thrust at the offi cer who springs back and executes a slapping block to the subjects arm with his/her hand.

A suitable follow-up technique can now be executed by the offi cer (see section on Wrap and Attack).

Pat against a diagonal line of attack

The offi cer faces the subject in the knife defensive stance.

The offender executes a downwards diagonal thrust at the offi cer who springs sideways and uses a block to the subject’s upper arm, either on the inside or outside of the arm.



Pat against lateral slashes

The offi cer faces the subject in the knife defensive stance. The subject executes a lateral slash line of attack at the offi cer who springs sideways and blocks the offender’s arm, either inside or outside of the arm.


Wrap – control the delivery system

Wrapping - This is the term used to describe the action whereby the offi cer controls the delivery system (arm) of the subject, by quickly wrapping both arms tightly around the subject’s arm/elbow.

The offi cer has blocked the subjects arm.

The offi cer then quickly wraps both arms tightly around the attackers arm, either on the inside or outside of the subjects arm.

The offi cer can then use a suitable follow-up technique (see section on Attack).

Attack

Once the attacker’s delivery system has been stabilised the offi cer may need to attack the attacker to ensure personal safety, neutralise the threat and achieve control of the situation.


Attack 1 – thigh/groin area

Targeting the outside of the thigh and the inner, causing motor dysfunction, balance displacement and distraction, allowing for other follow- up techniques. Strikes to this area will impede a subject’s ability to move quickly and continue their attack.

Striking to the groin will cause intense pain and distraction. The offi cer has blocked and wrapped the offender’s arm.

Offi cer then strikes to the outside of the offender’s thigh.

Alternatively the offi cer may fi nd him/herself inside a person’s arm.

The offi cer then employs a knee strike (or strikes) to the inside of the offender’s thigh.

In the same situation the offi cer could reasonably choose to execute a knee strike (or strikes) to the subject’s groin or chest area.


Attack 2 – rib area

Following a successful wrapping of the arm the offi cer can attack to the attacker’s ribs with his elbow. This can be achieved from a position either inside the arm or outside the arm, using either arm. Figure shows an attack to the subject’s ribs from outside the arm.

Attack 3 – throat/facial area

Attacking to these areas affects numerous nerves and other structures in the neck, causing pain, mental stunning, motor dysfunction, or unconsciousness. It may be that serious injury or fatality results as a result of such powerful blows to the face, neck or eye area. This has to be balanced against the risk to the offi cer.

Offi cer has blocked an attack and wrapped the offender’s arm.

Offi cer immediately uses follow-up strike with his elbow to the offender’s neck.

Further follow-up strikes should be made to this and other targets until the threat is neutralised.


Attack 4 - head strikes

There may be occasions when an offi cer has wrapped and controlled the arm and is unable to complete some of the striking skills. Under these circumstances a head strike is a viable option. If the offi cer is on the outside of the arm they should strike to the bridge of the nose or the base of the ear.




03000 111 222

CONFLICT MANAGEMENT


Police Dogs (Use of Force)

8-1DEFENSIVE TACTICS TRAININGPolice Dogs (Use of Force)

ContentsIntroduction ........................................................................................... 8-2Use of force and confl ict management ....................................................... 8-3Confl ict Management Model ...................................................................... 8-4

Information and Intelligence ............................................................. 8-4Threat Assessment .......................................................................... 8-4Powers and Policies ......................................................................... 8-5Tactical Options .............................................................................. 8-7Actions .......................................................................................... 8-7

Use of force reporting .............................................................................. 8-8Deployments considered non-use of force .......................................... 8-9Use of force deployments ................................................................. 8-9Chase and Detain ............................................................................ 8-10Crowd control – public order ............................................................. 8-10Spontaneous disorder ..................................................................... 8-10Sporting events and other pre-planned operations ............................... 8-10Ground commander ........................................................................ 8-11Briefi ngs ........................................................................................ 8-12

Control of the police dog .......................................................................... 8-12Warnings to subjects ............................................................................... 8-13Deployment in fi rearms incidents .............................................................. 8-13Post incident action ................................................................................. 8-13

8-2 DEFENSIVE TACTICS TRAININGPolice Dogs (Use of Force)

IntroductionThe prompt and proper utilisation of a trained police dog has proven to be a valuable resource for police forces across the UK. When correctly deployed they can substantially enhance the safety of both offi cers and the public, both in terms of protective action and search for vulnerable or wanted persons, property, explosives and/or drugs. Additionally there is an increased likelihood of suspect apprehension, with a signifi cantly reduced time-scale for any search of and area or building for such suspects.

A police dog used to apprehend is best understood as an instrument of force, like a baton, to be judged according to the rules that apply to police use of force generally (that is Section 3 of the Criminal Law Act 1967 and the Common Law). It is also to be remembered that the Chief Constable remains vicariously liable for any decisions made regarding the deployment of a police dog by any incident commander. Additionally the handler remains personally liable for his/her use of force. Substantial force infl icting serious injury must be reasonable and necessary according to the circumstances confronting offi cers. The issue will be reasonable necessity: was the force used proportionate to the apparent need to prevent escape or protect persons.

As applied to police dogs the reasonable necessity standard means a dog bite is justifi able and lawful force if, and only if, the threat to offi cers or the public is serious. The need for force must be suffi cient to justify the injury of a dog bite. A dog bite is no different from a laceration infl icted by a lawful baton strike. The need for force, not the injury infl icted, makes force lawful or unlawful.

Whilst acknowledging that the over-riding authority in terms of use of force is Section 3 of the Criminal Law act conclusions drawn elsewhere in the world suggest that there are key factors governing the use of Police Dogs which include:

1. whether the suspect poses an immediate threat to the safety of police offi cers, others, or the dog itself

2. whether the suspect is actively resisting arrest or attempting to evade arrest by fl ight.

This document will examine the various uses to which Police Dogs are put in the service and will separate them into two groups:

• those not having use of force implications• those having use of force implications

Guidelines are given as to their deployment, the actions of the handler and liaison with other offi cers and supervisors where a dog deployment is requested.

By creating such guidance the Northamptonshire Police will be in a position to provide the public with a more professional approach to the use of such resources and will further provide handlers and supervisors with a clear indication of what is expected of them. With clear terms of reference it will also enable a distinct and supportive post incident strategy in the event of bites having occurred.


Use of force and confl ict managementIn line with all other use of force advice for Northamptonshire Police Offi cers there is a common objective designed to clearly identify the reason for use of force.

The Objective of Police Use of Force

is

to maintain the safety of offi cers

and innocent persons

and the subject, where practicable

BY ESTABLISHING CONTROL

When a police dog is deployed as a use of force response option this objective remains the same. The same rule of law applies in terms of both Common Law and Section 3 Criminal Law Act 1967, in that any use of force must be reasonable in the circumstances.

Section 3 permits the use of such force in the prevention of crime, or in effecting or assisting in the lawful arrest of offenders or a person unlawfully at large.

The common law allows such force to be used for self-protection or the protection of others and in some circumstances property.

The statutes (and common law) governing use of force must now be read in conjunction with the Human Rights Act. The use of non-lethal force is still guided by a test of reasonableness rather than “the use of force which is no more than absolutely necessary.” The Convention however raises related issue in respect of proportionality. Is the force used proportionate to the wrong that it seeks to avoid or the harm it seeks to prevent? Is the force chosen the least intrusive or damaging practicable option? Careful consideration must be given to striking a fair balance between the rights of the suspect/s, prisoners or subjects and the interests and rights of the community at large.

Any use of force is, in law, an assault and, as such, must be justifi ed. If not it is unlawful.

When control is established and maintained the offi cers use of force ceases, for it then becomes punishment.





The confl ict management model is divided into fi ve components:




Information and intelligence contained on intelligence systems such as PNC or FISThe offi cer’s previous knowledge experience of the offender(s)Other offi cers’ previous knowledge or experience of the offender(s)

Threat Assessment




Compliance




Passive resistance



Active resistance














Powers and Policies

Use of force Policy

The objective of Police use of force is to preserve the safety of offi cers, innocent persons and the subject (where practicable) by establishing control.


Powers











The use of force and must be justifi ed and reasonable otherwise it constitutes and assault and is therefore unlawful. It is not possible to give instructions to cover every eventuality but remember, there must be some objective basis for the decision.



A lawful interference with the individual’s rights human rights must be necessary and this depends upon the measure taken being proportionate to the legitimate aim pursued in respect of qualifi ed rights like Article 8. For example the lawful arrest or detention of a suspect pursues the legitimate aim of the prevention and detection of crime. If force is not used in this proportionate way then this may amount to a breach of Article 8 of the European convention on Human Rights. This Article guarantees not only the right to privacy, but also the right to physical integrity – the right not to be hurt in an arbitrary or unjustifi able way.

Article 2





It is therefore imperative that use of force reporting and statement making is undertaken in line with the training on such issues, relating the response directly to offender conduct and impact factors, as per the Confl ict Management Model, indicating all the relevant circumstances that led to the use of lethal force. Regard must be had to the aim pursued; the dangers to life and limb


inherent in the situation and the degree of risk that the force employed might result in the loss of life.

Tactical Options



Offi cer presence








Defensive Tactics


Less Lethal Options


Lethal/Deadly Force

• Any action which is intended to or is likely to cause serious bodily harm or death. This includes some empty hand skills, some baton skills and fi rearms.

Actions



This model should not be regarded as restrictive but as fl exible with offi cers choosing the reasonable and proportionate response option anywhere on the scale using all the information available at that time. It is to be acknowledged that where an offender is fl eeing, the handler may not be in a position to assimilate all the information available when deciding whether or not to release the dog to establish control.


Additional issues directly relating to the use of police dogs as a use of force response include:

• as an organisation the Northamptonshire Police recognise the limitations of the dog.• where the dog is deployed in such a role there is a risk of serious injury to subjects and/or

offi cers and litigation is likely to follow.• a third party (such as a supervisor) requiring such deployment must take heed of the

handler’s advice and must defer to the hander in the fi nal decision as to such deployment (this is distinct from the instructions given by a Ground Commander at an incident).

The handler will justify direct deployment utilising the Confl ict Management Model and should seek to indicate that their perception is that:

• the direct deployment of the Police Dog is necessary to prevent escalation at an incident and such deployment is likely to assist in maintaining the safety of offi cers and innocent persons and achieving control or

• the offender poses an immediate threat to the safety of offi cers, innocent persons or the dog itself or

• the offender poses an immediate threat to property or• the offender is making off or likely to make off and if he/she evades capture there will be a

risk to the safety of other offi cers/innocent persons or evidence of an offence will be lost.

As with all other use of force it is for the offi cer to justify his/her actions based on their perceptions at an incident, calling on training and experience. It is impossible to dictate to individual offi cers when they should or should not utilise force to effect control. For this reason there is no list of “appropriate offences” for which a dog may or may not be deployed, for this seeks to place unrealistic restrictions on the actions of the handler.

Use of force reportingNorthamptonshire Police has a detailed reporting process which has allowed an informed and structured approach to use of force and offi cer safety training. Such information assists in identifying appropriate skills, strategies and equipment for offi cers.

An offi cer is required to submit a use of force report when:

• there is offi cer or offender injury• any physical force is used except escort position and compliant handcuffi ng• a baton, spray, TASER or fi rearm is drawn

No specifi c mention was made of Police Dogs but handlers applied the same criteria for reporting their use of the dog. There is a need to clarify when handlers should submit such a report for it is undesirable that they should be forced to submit a report every time they take their dog from their vehicle, or indeed patrol with it on a lead.

Requirement to report deployment of the police dog as a use of force is categorised as follows:

• offi cer or prisoner injury.• when the dog bites at the direction of the handler and there is no injury.• when the dog bites not at the direction of the handler and there is no injury.• when the dog is deployed to achieve control of an immediate threat to the handler, other

offi cers or innocent persons, or the dog itself, whether or not it bites or causes injury.• when the dog is deployed to apprehend a fl eeing offender/subject, whether or not it bites

or causes injury.

Utilising these guidelines it would therefore be necessary for the handler to submit a form on every occasion that he/she deploys the dog from as a direct deployment. Offi cers may also choose to submit a report for interim deployments at football matches or organised events. Such a deployment must conform to the offi cer’s training in the confl ict management model and therefore be reasonable in the circumstances.


Non use of force

It is necessary to distinguish those deployments which are not considered as a use of force.

Whilst it is recognised that the dog is an animal that has its own decision making process (especially when under threat) it is the subject of a high level of training which seeks to allow the handler to control the dog when it is deployed on or off the lead.

Deployments considered non-use of force

Police Dogs within Northamptonshire will be used for:

• search for persons• search for property• search for drugs/explosives and fi rearms. • tracking of offenders who have made off from the scene of a crime (as distinct from

apprehending an offender who is in the act of making off)• displays/presentations for other agencies/community groups

All general-purpose dogs are trained to search for persons and property. When they are searching buildings and property areas they are trained to bark upon fi nding. When searching for property the dogs are trained to indicate the article/s by either retrieving it or by passive indication, which involves the dog lying down next to it.

The reason for the dog barking is to indicate to the handler that it has found the missing persons/offender and is not a use of force. Under such circumstances the dog is trained to bite only in self-preservation after having been attacked by the person. In such circumstances (where the dog does bite) it becomes a use of force incident and is subject of a report by the handler.

The Police Dog is wholly specialised and now has its own unique place within the confl ict management model when being deployed in a use of force capacity. A consideration that applies to the deployment of dogs that does not apply to any other use of force is that of control. In any other deployment the offi cer has complete control of the implement he/she is using and the decision making process is purely personal.

When the Police Dog is deployed this is not the same. Whether deployed on or off a lead the dog has its own decision making process. Like all animals under threat it may react spontaneously to that perceived threat. Whilst every effort is made during training to ensure the dog only responds to the commands of the handler this stimulus response reaction remains and must be recognised.

Use of force deployments

Police Dogs within Northamptonshire will be used for the purpose of:

• chasing and detaining a person who is making off• disarming a criminal armed with a fi rearm or other weapon (offensive weapon per se, or

improvised)• guarding or escorting persons following detention• defending the handler against attack• defending other offi cers against attack• protecting other innocent persons• protecting property• defending itself against attack• crowd control (spontaneous public order incidents and sporting events)


Chase and Detain

Handlers and dogs train to ensure the dog is capable of chasing and detaining an offender who is making off and to protect its handler and itself. In a chase and detain situation the dog is sent by the handler after a warning is issued for the offender to stop. The dog is trained to chase and bite the offender on the right arm and to release on further command of the handler.

In the chase and stand-off scenario the dog is trained to ensure that, on all occasions where the offender surrenders, it will bark and remain at a reasonable distance from the subject, keeping him/her under surveillance, thus preventing their escape and allowing the handler to attend to take the offender into custody.

Crowd control – public order

By its very nature the use of a police dog to assist in such incidents is fraught with danger. Crowd dynamics can change dramatically from being compliant and non-threatening to being extremely volatile and dangerous in a matter of moments. There is an added and substantial risk to the dog (and handler) from missiles, petrol bombs and broken glass. In the main deployments at such incidents are as a deterrent but it must be recognised that persons in the crowd may continue with their behaviour. In such cases the dog may then be used to establish control. Under such circumstances there is a risk of persons being bitten. It is appropriate that public order be divided into two distinct types:

Spontaneous disorder (Regularly experienced in town centre situations, largely alcohol related)

Police dogs and their handlers regularly deploy at such incidents and have a calming effect on the participants. This is normally achieved by deployment with the dog from their vehicle, remaining at a discreet (safe) distance from the incident, thus providing a deterrent to persons on the periphery. In this way the handler is in a position to monitor the situation and, if necessary, assist with a direct deployment of the dog when the situation escalates so as to make such action reasonable. This is now defi ned as an interim deployment.

Whilst it is recognised that because of the nature of the incident it is not possible to demand that the handler complies in every instance where a direct deployment is then made, the following guidelines are considered good practice:

1. Where practicable a warning should be given prior to deployment by either the handler or the offi cer in charge of the incident.

2. The dog may be deployed when the perception is that it is necessary to prevent the situation escalating to one which represents a risk of serious injury or life threatening violence.

3. The dog may be deployed when the perception is that there is an immediate threat to the safety of offi cers or other innocent persons.

4. The dog may be deployed when the perception is that there is an immediate threat to the safety of the dog itself

5. Notwithstanding a request from a supervisor the fi nal decision as to deployment of the dog will rest with the handler (this is distinct from directions given by a Ground Commander at an incident).

Sporting events and other pre-planned operations(Football matches /demonstrations)

Pre-existing guidance regarding the deployment of dogs at such events was general and did not advocate the use of the dogs within close proximity to other offi cers (police cordons) to disperse crowds. This view continues, with deployments other than as part of a PSU at such events being viable within certain boundaries.


Police Dogs can be utilised in either indirect or interim deployment and form part of the contingency planning for such incidents/events in a role which allows them to protect vulnerable property, buildings and vehicles and act as a deterrent as follows:

• at relevant transport venues including railway stations and coach or car parks• along routes of processions/demonstrations or known routes of pedestrians and vehicular

traffi c for sporting events• outside the ground at football matches

Such deployments would allow a reasonable distance between the dog and the crowd being policed. This would allow the handler to monitor the situation and assist by a direct deployment of a dog to assist other offi cers, subject to the following good practice:

1. where practicable a warning should be given prior to a direct deployment by either the handler or the offi cer in charge of the incident/event

2. the dog may be directly deployed when the perception is that it is necessary to prevent the situation escalating to one which represents a risk of serious injury or life threatening violence

3. the dog may be directly deployed when the perception is that there is an immediate threat to the safety of offi cers or other innocent persons

4. the dog may be directly deployed when the perception is that there is an immediate threat to the safety of the dog itself

5. notwithstanding a request from a supervisor the fi nal decision as to deployment of the dog will rest with the handler (note this is distinct from the directions given for deployment by a ground commander at an incident)

Whilst police dogs should not routinely be deployed inside football grounds their appropriate use as a deterrent to pitch invasion and crowd violence can be a useful tactic to ground commanders.

Where a ground commander seeks to place Police Dogs inside the ground, as aforesaid, it would be wise, where practicable, to place the dogs and handlers behind other resources, including offi cers with batons drawn. In the event that those resources were unsuccessful it would then help to show that the deployment of the dogs was reasonable and in line with the confl ict management model in that lower response options had failed to achieve control.

Ground commander

It is recognised that the ground commander may feel that the situation has developed to such an extent that:

• there is risk of serious disorder with a resultant threat to the safety of offi cers and innocent persons

• the direct deployment of the Police Dogs is necessary to prevent an escalation and maintain safety and achieve control.

In such cases the ground commander would rely on the confl ict management model and authorise the dogs to deploy inside the ground, only following consultation with the dog section liaison offi cer (any offi cer designated as such by the section supervisor) present and the Public Order Tactical Adviser for their specialist advice.

In such circumstances the ground commander would have regard to:

• the nature of the disorder• the environment within which the dogs are expected to work• the capabilities and limitation of the dogs in the public order context• the propensity for, and possibility of, serious/aggravated violence and the resultant risk of

injury to offi cers and innocent persons• the believed overall effectiveness of such deployment• the need to deploy dogs in pairs with their handlers


Ground commanders must remain aware of such risks before authorising such deployment. Those reasons must be documented in the Public Order Incident Log, which will include a use of force report.

Briefi ngs

In addition because of the nature of such events the necessity for clear briefi ngs is imperative.

In relation to Police Dogs and handlers the following good practice will be adopted:

• as well as a general briefi ng for such operations there will be a separate (recorded) briefi ng for the handlers.

• instructions as to deployment must be specifi c.• where handlers have concerns over such deployment they will inform the person undertaking

the briefi ng and document the reasons for their concern.• following such consultation there may be a need to amend the instructions to ensure a

more appropriate deployment. This will also be documented.• on those rare occasions where a compromise cannot be reached the operational commander

retains the right to deploy in line with the operational order having noted the concerns of the offi cers.

• handlers must have a separate debrief at the conclusion of the operation.

Control of the police dogWhen the handler deploys with the dog he/she is duty bound to maintain control of the animal at all times. It has to be recognised that the issue of control is not an easy one to determine, for the dog remains capable of independent thought and action. This places an additional burden on the handler. The training to which the handler and dog are subject seeks to enable the handler to impose his/her will on the animal, including those times at which it is stressed. Control can be divided into to distinct areas:

On the lead

The handler can control the length of lead between him/her and the animal. To an extent, with training, the handler can control the direction in which the dog moves. (Fanning in front of a hostile crowd). There are two matters that may be beyond the control of the handler

• spontaneous actions on the part of the crowd or individuals within that crowd• spontaneous response from the dog – and to an extent follow up responses

Off the lead

The handler can release the dog with a specifi c intent that the dog will complete the task to hand - search of premises or search of open area. The dog may perceive other threats/stimuli and respond accordingly.

Recognising those limitations the handler of a dog is required to maintain control of the animal.

Duties of the handler

• Where practicable the handler will be in a position to establish control of the animal, both on and off the lead

• Where practicable, when the dog is off the lead, the handler will attempt to maintain visual contact and therefore retain the ability to recall it when necessary


Warnings to subjectsIt is incumbent on the offi cer, where practicable, to issue a warning that he/she is about to directly deploy the police dog in line with his training. It is recognised that, in spontaneous situations, with immediate threats being presented, this will not always be possible.

Warning 1 Given by the handler to subjects who are making off or to subjects involved in spontaneous public disorder

“Police with a dog- stop or I’ll send the dog” (where practicable this warning should be given twice)

Warning 2 Given by the handler where subject/s are believed to be secreted in an area or building

“Police with a dog. Come out, or make yourself known to a Police Offi cer within the next minute”

Following the minute and before the release of the dog the handler will further state

“I am now releasing the dog. When it fi nds you, for your own safety you must remain still and quiet and you will come to no harm”(Where practicable this warning should be repeated in each different part of the building or area)

Warning 3 Given prior to deployment by ground/incident commander

“Stop, disperse or Police Dogs will be used”(Where possible this warning should be regularly repeated)

As well as the individual offi cer giving the warning recording the fact in his/her pocket book, other offi cers present who also heard the warning must record the fact in their pocket books.

Deployment in fi rearms incidentsPolice Dogs and handlers already form part of the response in a fi rearms incident. The dog is viewed as a non-lethal option is such incidents.

Response at a fi rearms incident

With a non-compliant person in such situations the handler, with the dog on a lead, will deploy under the protection of armed offi cers. The handler and dog will then move to the necessary position to enable the interception of the person who continues to be non-compliant. If deployment is required the dog will be sent forward on the lead to achieve control of the subject.

Such deployment allows continued control of the dog from a safe distance, with continued cover from the armed offi cers.

Where practicable the handler will issue a warning (Warning 1) as shown on previous page.

Post incident actionThe criteria for reporting the use of force are established and the handler involved will submit the use of force report where applicable.

Where a person who is the subject of a dog bite makes off and is not arrested the offi cer will still complete the use of force report. The section supervisor will debrief the handler as soon as


practicable after the event. The section supervisor will brief the head of operational training on such incidents. Information on all such incidents will be recorded on the use of force reporting database to enable ongoing evaluation.

Where the incident involved injury to a subject who is arrested the following actions will be taken:

• on arrival at the custody block the offi cer will brief the custody offi cer regarding the use of the dog.

• the custody offi cer will record the injuries and arrange for examination by a police surgeon.• the custody offi cer will arrange for the injuries to be photographed.• where an offender wishes to complain the custody offi cer will arrange for the relevant

offi cer to attend to record the complaint.• the section supervisor will debrief the handler as soon as practicable after the event.• on a monthly basis the section supervisors and head of operational training will liaise

regarding all such incidents, utilising the use of force reporting process.• on a monthly basis the head of operational training and/or the Inspector responsible for the

Dog Section will liaise with the professional standards department regarding all complaints relating to the deployment of Police Dogs

At all stages of the post-incident process the handler may liaise directly with the head of operational training, especially where there are concerns regarding criminal or civil litigation and/or the progress of any subsequent investigation.




03000 111 222

CONFLICT MANAGEMENT


Mental Health Awareness

9-1DEFENSIVE TACTICS TRAININGMental Health Awareness

ContentsIntroduction ........................................................................................... 9-2Mental health awareness quiz ................................................................... 9-3Mental health awareness quiz - answers .................................................... 9-4Some mental health statistics ................................................................... 9-5Defi nitions ............................................................................................. 9-6

Learning disability ........................................................................... 9-6Mental health problems ................................................................... 9-6Dementia/Alzheimer’s disease .......................................................... 9-6Neurotic illnesses (severe stress or anxiety) ....................................... 9-6Psychoses ...................................................................................... 9-6Possible aggressive behaviour of the subject ....................................... 9-8

Your response ........................................................................................ 9-9Conclusion ............................................................................................. 9-10

9-2 DEFENSIVE TACTICS TRAININGMental Health Awareness

IntroductionPersons suffering from mental health problems are coming into contact with police offi cers on an increasingly regular basis. Statistics from our use of force reporting system show that the number of use of force incidents involving persons suffering mental health problems has doubled since we commenced the reporting process in 1994.

Such persons come into contact with offi cers, not only as suspects or offenders, but also as victims, witnesses, or as simply seeking assistance. The way an offi cer responds to a person experiencing mental health problems will, in turn, infl uence the behaviour of that person and, if inappropriate, may increase the distress that that person is suffering.

Whilst persons suffering mental health problems in the community will conduct themselves quite lawfully and peacefully for the majority of the time they may suffer behavioural problems associated with their illness manifesting itself where medication is either not taken, or is taken intermittently. In such cases the person may become disorientated, distressed, unpredictable and sometimes (rarely) violent in their interaction with police offi cers and other persons.

As with our approach to all use of force incidents it is incumbent on us to respond in a positive, caring and professional manner towards such persons. If at all possible the incident should be resolved with sound communication skills, with other (physical) skills being employed when the communication process has broken down.

This document aims to give practical advice to offi cers in recognising signs of mental health problems and how to respond, without compromising offi cer safety and the safety of other persons, including the subject.

If force is not used in a proportionate way then this may amount to a breach of Article 8 of the European Convention on Human Rights. This Article guarantees not only the right to privacy, but also the right to physical integrity – the right not to be hurt in an arbitrary or unjustifi able way.

Article 14 also relates to prohibition of discrimination – on any grounds. This would include those persons suffering from mental health problems. The objective, therefore, of the provision of this training programme is to raise the awareness of offi cers in relation to mental health problems, assist them in identifying those occasions when they may be dealing with a person suffering from mental health problems and respond professionally, reasonably and proportionately. This would include seeking assistance from other agencies.


Mental health awareness quizPlease answer true or false.

1. People are born with mental health problems.2. Dementia is a normal part of growing old.3. People with schizophrenia have a split personality.4. There is no cure for dementia at present.5. You can’t recover from mental health problems. 6. A person who has dementia will experience both mental and physical decline.7. Forgetfulness in the elderly indicates the beginning of dementia.8. People with schizophrenia are always violent.9. Dementia is always fatal.10. Patients in psychiatric hospitals don’t have the right to vote.11. Some dementias are caused by strokes.12. Most people who have mental health problems end up in hospital.13. The majority of people with dementia are in hospital or nursing homes.14. Employers are legally allowed to discriminate against people who have had a mental health

problem.


Mental health awareness quiz - answers1. FALSE You can’t be born with mental health problems. The belief that you can probably

arises from the confusion between mental health problems and learning diffi culty.

Note: that Huntington’s Chorea, classed as mental illness, is genetically transmitted. Similarly, Kilnefelter’s Syndrome is a chromosomal disorder. There is a current debate about whether people can be born with a predisposition to certain forms of mental health problems.

2. FALSE The majority of elderly people do not have dementia. It is not a normal part of growing old. Only one person in ten, between the ages of 65 and 70 is affected, leaving nine unaffected.

3. FALSE Contrary to popular belief and image the term schizophrenia does not mean split personality. It is a term used by psychiatrists to describe particular combinations of symptoms which include hallucinations, thought disorder and delusions.

4. TRUE There are literally dozens of research projects underway in Britain and America looking into brain function and deterioration. The brain is the most complex organism in the body, indeed with its billions of cells, is the most complex object in the known universe. Though we have learned more in the past twenty years than in all previous history a cure for dementia has not yet been found (though diagnosis of genetic varieties and palliatives - which slow down some dementias - are on the way).

5. FALSE The majority of people who experience an episode of mental health problems make a complete recovery. The belief that you cannot recover from mental health problems may arise from confusion between mental health problems and mental handicap, or from an association of the term mental health problems with the long term disability that a minority of people suffer as a result of mental health problems.

6. TRUE People with dementia typically experience a decline in their ability to concentrate, to initiate or stop activity, to achieve logical progression, to regulate their emotions and moods, and this mental decline varies for each person. Physical decline can include weight loss or gain and deterioration of all physical functions.

7. FALSE Forgetfulness is quite common even among young people, particularly as the result of multiple tasks/heavy work pressure/distractions. It is not, at all, an exclusive indicator of dementia (though it could be one of the early signs, combined with other factors). A survey found that a high proportion of over 70s felt that their forgetfulness indicated the beginnings of dementia: however, their worries are completely unfounded.

8. FALSE Only a small proportion of people with this diagnosis have any tendency to violence. Ken Dickson, a member of the Woodlee Enquiry said “The biggest predictor of violence is whether or not a person has a history of violence, or has been a victim, rather than whether he or she has a mental health problem.

9. TRUE The combination of dementia with its associated physical deterioration leads to eventual death, though the primary cause of death might be heart or breathing failure.

10. TRUE and FALSE Informal patients i.e. patients in psychiatric hospitals on a voluntary basis are entitled to vote. However in order to register as an elector you must be informed or already aware of the registration procedure. You must also be able to give the address of where you would be staying if you were not in hospital and, if you can’t say where this would be, a former address. Some patients who have been in hospital for many years will not be able to do this.

Formal patients i.e. people admitted to hospital on a Compulsory Admission Order do not

have a right to vote even if they are away from hospital on offi cial leave of absence at the time.


11. TRUE Researchers are allocating around a 10% proportion of dementias to miniature strokes within the brain, which lead to a sudden deterioration in some area of brain function. The progression in these ‘vascular’ dementias is often ‘step-like’ compared to the gradual decline of Alzheimer’s disease.

12. FALSE The vast majority of people who could be described as suffering from mental health problems or ‘psychotic symptoms’ do not go to psychiatric hospitals or even see a psychiatrist. Research has shown that, in every 1000 of the population, 250 people will be experiencing symptoms which can be described as psychiatric symptoms: of these 250 people only 17 will be referred to psychiatric out-patient hospitals and only 6 will become patients in psychiatric hospitals.

13. FALSE The majority of people with dementia live at home and a high proportion of these live alone. Only a small percentage, who are usually in the intermediate or later stages of the disease, have hospital/nursing home care.

14. FALSE The Disability Discrimination Act makes it an offence for an employer to discriminate against employees on grounds that they are experiencing mental health problems, or on issues related to their mental health. The Human Rights act, in combination with Article 14 of the Convention, also makes it unlawful to discriminate unjustifi ably on any grounds.

Some mental health statistics• 1 in 4 adults will experience mental health problems during their lifetime. In Britain doctors

diagnose six million people a year as being mentally ill.• Everyone has the potential to suffer from mental health problems.• Mental health problems are real illnesses and can cause distress to the persons who

experience them.• Such people are no more likely to be violent than any other member of the public.• People who are under the infl uence of drink or drugs are more likely to be violent than

persons suffering mental health problems.• 95% people with mental health problems live in the community.• 10% of all admissions are formal, 90% are informal/voluntary.• Women are twice as likely as men to receive chemical treatments.• Afro-Caribbean men are 10 times more likely to be given a diagnosis of schizophrenia than

white men.• Over 150,000 persons have dementia in England.• Some persons with dementia are as young as 40.• Many carers experience physical and emotional stress from the toll taken by looking after

a person suffering from mental health problems.• Dementia is the 4th biggest killer in the UK.


Defi nitionsLearning disability

A range of disabilities which result from:

• The failure of the brain to develop (Downs Syndrome)• Physical damage to the brain (Cerebral Palsy)

Mental health problems

• Disorders of the mind and body which involve disturbance in the way people think, behave and interact with others.

• Some such illness may be temporary, with the sufferer making a full recovery. Some, unfortunately, may suffer a lifetime of such illness.

Dementia/Alzheimer’s disease

• Illnesses which are caused by destruction of brain cells at a faster rage than in normal ageing. This may be due to changes in the nerve cells or problems regarding blood supply to the brain.

Unlike most physical illnesses you cannot see a mental health problem - yet it is just as distressing and disabling for those suffering the effects and living through it. Remember this distress is also borne by family members.

Mental health problems can, at times, be diffi cult to recognise

It can affect different people in different ways.

There are two RECOGNISED types of mental health problems:

Neurosesand

Psychoses

Neurotic illnesses (severe stress or anxiety)

These are an exaggeration of the way people usually respond to stress. A person’s problems seem so overwhelming that they interfere with the normal life and the person can no longer cope with those problems effectively. The emotional disturbances the person goes through will be beyond normal mood swings. Although their feelings become disturbed a neurotic person is still able to reason and is well aware of the problems and diffi culties he or she is going through.

Examples

• Anxiety states, irritability, panic attacks, loss of concentration• Phobias – irrational fears of – specifi c object, person, places, which can lead to panic

attacks and/or avoidance behaviour.• Obsessions – thoughts and ideas that become exaggerated.• Depression – associated with a life event – bereavement or trauma at work.

Psychoses

People suffering from a psychotic illness (eg. Schizophrenia) lose touch with what is going on around them and with ordinary reality. Their thoughts become disturbed as well as their feelings and they are no longer able to sort out what is real and what isn’t. It is important to remember, though, that even in a severe psychotic illness a person can experience periods when they can think and reason normally.


Examples

• Manic Depression – mood swings from mania to depression.• Mania – Overwhelming energy, excitable, lack of inhibitions, rapid and incoherent speech.• Depression – with or without apparent cause.• Low levels of activity or motivation, disturbed sleep patterns and appetite – sad, miserable

thoughts, suicidal thoughts or attempts.

Don’t confuse mental health problems with:

Drug addiction – some people with mental health problems such as schizophrenia or depression may have drugs/medication on them when they are brought into police custody, especially if they are self-medicating. This will usually be in tablet or capsule form.

Diffi cult behaviour – Many of the symptoms of a person suffering mental health problems may seem diffi cult to deal with. Individuals may seem unco-operative/unresponsive, annoying and/or rude. This is not necessarily the case. Presenting behaviour may be a result of their distress and not a deliberate attempt to antagonise or annoy.

Please consider that the person may be experiencing great emotional distress.

Possible indicators that a person may be suffering from long term psychotic illness

Within your defensive tactics programme you already receive an input on tactical communications. The advice and guidance given in the following pages is intended as complementary to that training and should be used by offi cers in line with that training – continuing to build on offi cer safety skills within the confl ict management model.

IT IS STRESSED THAT THE POINTS BELOW MAY BE INDICATORS THAT SOMEONE IS EXPERIENCING SEVERE MENTAL HEALTH PROBLEMS

It is also true that such a person may not exhibit any of these indicators.

False beliefs – believing people are against them – that they have special powers, thinking they are someone else (many false beliefs centre around religion).

Hearing/seeing/tasting/smelling things that aren’t really there.

Unkempt, inappropriate or scruffy dress.

Looking away/intense focusing elsewhere as though there is someone/something there (eg. staring at the corner of the ceiling).

Unpredictable mood swings.

Inappropriate emotion – laughing at something sad, crying at something amusing – monotonous speech. Sometimes may seem emotionless.

Loss of inhibitions – may be sexual – removing clothes, using sexually explicit language, innuendos, fi nancial – reckless/lavish spending on unaffordable/unnecessary items.

Fear of authority/evasive. This can be part of an illness and is not deliberate awkwardness.

Mixed up/jumbled speech and thoughts - go off on tangents or use confusing words/sentences which don’t appear to make sense.

Shuffl ing/agitated behaviour – rolling the tongue, pill rolling, tremors, and repetitive movements.


Possible aggressive behaviour of the subject

It is recognised that persons suffering mental health problems may become hostile and exhibit not only aggressive behaviour but may also readily become physically violent or resistive.

There are a number of possible causes:

Fear the subject is frightened of noise/people. This leads to desperation and a feeling that the only way out is to fi ght.

Anger the subject becomes provoked either by others or by your very presence.

Symptom response the subject is responding to voices or delusions that they are required to harm someone.

Paranoia the subject has the feeling that he/she is being persecuted by society and may respond negatively to anyone in authority.

ALL OF THESE FACTORS MAY LEAD TO VIOLENCE IF THE SUBJECT FEELS THAT THEY HAVE LOST CONTROL OF THEIR SITUATION

The ideas, beliefs and sensory experiences that the subject suffers during mental health problems are frightening, personally distressing and are very powerful. One of the most frightening aspects is that they cannot control or stop what is happening to them.

People can recover from mental health problems by regaining control over themselves and their lives.


Your responseStrategies

• Assess the situation, without presuming what is going on.• Recognise warning and danger signs (from the Tactical Communications Programme).• Consider what other impact factors may further trigger the subject towards violence.• Display appropriate body language yourself.• React in line with your training – Listen, Ask, Explain, Paraphrase, Summarise.• Options Give the subject realistic options/choices – let them have some control without

compromising your safety.• Re-enforce reality bring them back to the point of the conversation.• Space try to maintain your reactionary gap. This makes you safer and makes them feel

less threatened.• Allow them to carry out any ritualistic or repetitive behaviour – it can reduce anxiety.

Try to

• Indicate that you are not a threat to them.• Inform them of what you intend to do. It is not in your interests to keep them guessing,

especially if they have feelings of being persecuted.• Be careful how you communicate. If paired - one offi cer should talk with the subject.

This applies particularly well to people who suffer schizophrenia because they may hear other voices as well. The second offi cer can provide cover for the contact offi cer.

• Keep movements to a minimum.• Keep your hands in view. If you are not holding anything let them know that. • Remove them from any noise source – it is a major distracter. • Use short simple phrases when talking with them.

Responding positively

The key to responding and achieving control of the situation where it involves a person suffering from mental health problems is your ability to communicate in a clear and sensitive manner.

Body language

• Be open in your approach to them. Try not to approach from behind.• As well as establishing a reactionary gap adopt a non-threatening (defensive) stance. • Do not surround them with offi cers.• Do not stand over them, fi nger point or make physical contact unless it is absolutely

necessary.• Use normal eye contact – avoid staring, but be alert to their movements and the distance

between you.• Where possible reduce your body height by sitting or squatting at the same height as the

subject.• Remove your headgear – it may be seen as a sign of authority.

If you think someone is suffering from mental health problems try not to

• Shout at them• Look aggressive• Whisper to colleagues• Use blue light and two tones unnecessarily

Do not touch the person unless

• You are sure they do not feel threatened • You need to arrest or complete a control technique


ConclusionDealing with a person suffering mental health problems is a diffi cult and complex skill owing to numerous factors. Where situations involving mental health arise each set of circumstances should be dealt with on its own merits and with due regard to the impact factors that may be present at any given time. The way in which an offi cer deals with such an incident should not compromise their safety or the safety of others. At the same time the response must be professional, considering the safety and dignity of the subject.

Alcohol and drugs may well affect the way a person suffering mental health problems behaves. Research indicates that violence is more prevalent where alcohol and drugs are abused and co-exist with mental health problems. The vast majority of the time offi cers come into contact with mentally ill persons there will be no violence or aggression manifested but, unfortunately, on those rare occasions that it does occur there is the potential for serious injury to all parties. How offi cers approach and deal with such persons is crucial in maintaining safety and establishing control of the situation.




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Defensive Tactics Manual 2011 - WhatDoTheyKnow

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