NCJ Number
157993
Date Published
1993
Length
72 pages
Annotation
This report presents the results of in-force trials of the expandable side-handled baton (ESHB) as an alternative to the traditional truncheon used by police forces in Great Britain.
Abstract
The research involved 13 police forces, 12 of which participated in every aspect of the study. The research involved collecting views and data on training, collecting and analyzing data on incidents, understanding police officer views, analyzing relevant police force data, and evaluating the general public's views of batons. It was found that most police officers strongly preferred the ESHB over the truncheon, in part because the ESHB helped police officers defend themselves more effectively than the truncheon. At the same time, the ESHB appeared no more likely to cause serious injury to the public, and the majority of citizens favored the change from the truncheon to the ESHB. Police officers were generally positive about ESHB training they received but indicated there was room for improvement. While the ESHB was generally effective, well-liked, and relatively safe to use, the researchers determined that other alternatives may be more appropriate than the ESHB in certain circumstances. They recommend that the choice of baton reflect police officer role, policing circumstances, police officer preference, and police and public safety. Appendixes contain the forms used in the research study. 31 tables and 3 figures