NCJ Number
165227
Journal
FBI Law Enforcement Bulletin Volume: 66 Issue: 2 Dated: (February 1997) Pages: 20-26
Date Published
1997
Length
7 pages
Annotation
This article traces the history of the police use of various nonlethal methods of repelling attacks and notes the dangers and inadequacies of various techniques and equipment; the article argues for "realistic training" that prepares officers for the types of encounters they will experience on the streets.
Abstract
Nonlethal devices such as mace, tasers, nonlethal projectiles, and pepper spray have all been touted at some time as the ideal, nonlethal way to control and restrain violent subjects. All of these devices, however, have had occasions when they were either ineffective in controlling a subject or were lethal to a subject. Also, various defensive and control physical measures such as "joint locks" and "pressure points" have drawbacks. The authors propose "reality-based" training, which recognizes there is no perfect means to control subjects. Realistic training prepares officers for the types of encounters they will experience on the streets. Specifically, training should prepare officers for a surprise assault. Proper training can condition officers to reduce stress levels during an assault, so that they can respond from a position of control rather than from one of surprise. Defensive maneuvers should be based on gross motor skills that use large muscle groups and follow natural patterns, so that the ability of the officer to execute the moves will not deteriorate as arousal levels increase. 17 notes