NCJ Number
198051
Journal
Tactical Response Volume: 1 Issue: 1 Dated: 2002 Pages: 54-59
Date Published
2002
Length
6 pages
Annotation
This article discusses the police use of less-lethal force options during high-risk confrontations.
Abstract
The author explains that the use of less-lethal tactics to resolve high-risk confrontations is desirable because it presents many tactical advantages for the police team. More options for less-lethal force are becoming widely available, especially in the area of large bore specialty impact munitions. The author offers many real-life examples of high-risk confrontations that were resolved with less-lethal force. For example, the author describes a hostage situation that occurred in Dallas, Texas, in January 2002. The confrontation was resolved by shooting the suspect with a foam baton round, causing him to release the hostage. Among the tactical advantages presented by the use of less-lethal force are an extended reactionary gap, limited physical contact, the ability to maintain cover, and the reduction of entry threats. The author presents a text box which explains different types of large bore projectiles. In conclusion, the author notes that all missions are unpredictable and the use of deadly force always remains a possibility.