NCJ Number
177348
Date Published
1998
Length
153 pages
Annotation
This report presents national minimum guidelines for Australian police in managing incidents, resolving conflicts, and using force.
Abstract
The first chapter discusses the various aspects of police use of force. The discussion deals with the overarching aspects of the topic, including the inappropriate use of force and the action that can be taken to avoid the problem, the introduction of a simple tactical options model as an aid to police, lethal force as an option of last resort, training, vicarious liability, the need for a consolidated policy, a national use-of-force data base, and a range of associated issues. The second chapter considers incident management and related issues. It discusses local and overseas experiences and provides guidance to police on how they can minimize risk, improve their operational safety, and resolve incidents with the optimal (i.e., minimum) force and achieve the best possible outcomes. It is recommended that police receive training in effective conflict resolution and in communications tactics that will enhance their ability to handle their daily communications tactics that will enhance their ability to handle their daily interactions with the public. The third chapter discusses a range of less-than-lethal weapons and recommends Oleoresin Capsaicin (OC) spray as the best product for general police use. The concluding chapter focuses on firearms training. The guidelines are categorized under policy issues, training issues, recruitment issues, operational issues, management issues, communication issues, and research issues. 178 references and appended supplementary information