NCJ Number
214635
Journal
Police: The Law Enforcement Magazine Volume: 30 Issue: 5 Dated: May 2006 Pages: 58-61
Date Published
May 2006
Length
4 pages
Annotation
This article describes the many varieties of covert/concealed weapons and how for personal safety, police officers must be able to recognize weapons that can be concealed by suspects and offenders.
Abstract
Criminals have nothing but time on their hands to see and find out about weapons that can escape detection by law enforcement. Covert weapons date back to ancient times, where sharpened coins were used which today have evolved into hidden blades. Concealed blades are commonly found in jewelry, such as rings and cufflinks. In addition, many weapons are made from materials that are not easily detected. These are considered covert because of the inert composition of the material from which they have been manufactured. Law enforcement officers on the street face a variety of covert weapons. Most often a pat-down is the only search employed by police officers. If done correctly, hidden weapons can be uncovered. There are also covert weapons which are not concealed on a person, sometimes they are hidden within easy reach, such as a motorcycle dipstick knife and umbrellas. As long as law enforcement requires officers to interact directly with people, there is potential for harm. An officer must recognize weapons that by design, material composition, or method of carry can be concealed within the reach of a person being taken into custody.