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High-Risk Warrants

NCJ Number
128004
Date Published
1990
Length
6 pages
Annotation
The execution of arrest and search warrants is one of the most demanding and potentially high-risk activities for police officers.
Abstract
The increased tendency for criminals to behave violently, especially those involved in the drug trade, has made the execution of warrants an exceptionally hazardous assignment. This document serves as a guide for organizing, planning, and structuring a tactical operation for service or execution of a warrant. Criteria should be established for classifying search warrants as to the degree of risk involved. Elements involved in planning for the execution of high-risk warrants are enumerated including diagrams of the location, items to note in surveillance of the site, and so forth. Suggestions for briefing the officers involved are highlighted as is the actual execution of the plan. Following execution of the plan, a formal critique should be held to assess the operation.