NCJ Number
130308
Journal
FBI Law Enforcement Bulletin Volume: 60 Issue: 6 Dated: (June 1991) Pages: 24-26
Date Published
1991
Length
3 pages
Annotation
Contrary to what many police officers believe, the Posse Comitatus Act permits civilian law enforcement agencies to seek military assistance under some specific circumstances.
Abstract
While military personnel cannot usually directly assist in civilian law enforcement operations including search and seizures, arrests, surveillance, or undercover operations, direct assistance is allowed when it furthers military interests, without regard to the incidental benefits to the civilian agency involved. The most frequently requested type of indirect military assistance is the military working dog (MWD) teams, used in explosive and drug detection. Other ways in which military assistance is proffered is through training on firing ranges, combat towns, and other training facilities; expert advice and technical assistance; the loan of military equipment and personnel; and emergency capabilities including rescue helicopters, military divers, and explosive ordnance disposal technicians. Civilian law enforcement officials who require military assistance should contact senior military law enforcement officials stationed at every installation. 11 notes