NCJ Number
152186
Journal
Police: The Law Enforcement Magazine Volume: 18 Issue: 10 Dated: (October 1994) Pages: 41-42,90
Date Published
1994
Length
3 pages
Annotation
Drug raids are an obvious source of danger for law enforcement; thorough preparation, training, and good tactics can keep officers out of the danger zone.
Abstract
Seven survival tips for drug raids are outlined. The first suggestion is to keep the operation simple. If the components of an operation are numerous and complicated, there is more opportunity for misunderstanding and timing errors. Another recommended technique is to maintain command unity; overlapping areas of supervisory responsibility can be as dangerous as they are confusing. Other guidelines are to ensure superior numbers and weapons, maintain surprise, move as a team, and rely on speed. A description of preparations for the raid encompasses information gathering, planning/briefing, personnel assignments, approach and entry, searching, handling of arrestees, and critiquing. Following the raid, the overall incident commander should solicit views on equipment, intelligence, tactics, and officer safety procedures used. A drug raid safety checklist is provided.