NCJ Number
189117
Journal
Law and Order Volume: 49 Issue: 5 Dated: June 2001 Pages: 91-94
Date Published
June 2001
Length
4 pages
Annotation
This article discusses the commonly accepted police procedure widely used in the handcuffing of persons perceived to be extremely dangerous and why a new method should be used.
Abstract
This procedure is that of “proning out” and “covering” a suspect with firearms, while a designated officer approaches the suspect to apply handcuffs. The theory is if the suspect does something that warrants the use of deadly force or in some other way seriously harms the cuffing officer, the cover officer can offer protection to the cuffing officer and bring the situation under control. However, too many officers fool themselves into believing that grounding a suspect eliminates the potential for effective resistance. Success is a matter of whether or not the suspect remains compliant. If the suspect suddenly and violently begins to struggle with the cuffing officer, chances are the cover officer will be useless, at least until he holsters and covers the distance to assist. The cover officer should be versatile enough to offer immediate assistance in more ways than the use of a firearm. Both officers should be in good position at all times to render immediate assistance to one another in a form that is complimentary. The suspect should be positioned and contacted using methods that place him at the greatest disadvantage and restrict his ability to quickly seize the cuffing officer. The cuffing officer should secure the suspect before attempting to handcuff using methods that allow for quick disengagement if necessary and that do not place him in the field of fire. The cuffing officer makes the first contact by picking up one of the suspect’s feet. One hand is at the heel, the other at the toe. The cuffing officer is able to counter a roll by twisting the foot in the opposite direction. He can elect to let go and back off, or drag the suspect. This gives the cover officer time and opportunity to use his free hand and feet, fire at the suspect if needed, or holster to use other personal weapons. With this procedure, both officers have the ability to quickly disengage, are never placed in crossfire, and can compliment one another’s efforts in more than one level of force.