172 Questions
What is the purpose of this standard operating procedure?
To provide guidelines for the use of less-lethal force by sworn personnel of the Sheriff's Office
What is the scope of this standard operating procedure?
It applies to all sworn personnel of the Sheriff's Office
What is the standard for determining the use of force according to the U.S. Supreme Court?
The use of force must be reasonable in light of the surrounding facts and circumstances
What is the responsibility of each deputy involved in a use-of-force incident?
To immediately inform a supervisor of the incident
What is a chokehold, as defined in the standard operating procedure?
The intentional and prolonged application of force to the throat, windpipe, or airway of another person
What is a Conducted Energy Weapon (CEW)?
A Taser that uses less than lethal force to stun a target into compliance
What is excessive use of force, as defined in the standard operating procedure?
A use of force that exceeds the degree of force permitted by law, policy, or the observing officer's employing agency
What is the responsibility of each deputy involved when a subject is injured during the use of a restraint device?
To immediately inform a supervisor of the incident
What is the minimum level of resistance required for an expandable baton to be used?
Aggressive physical resistance
What is the purpose of the OC agent?
To act as an inflammatory agent to the eyes and mucous membranes
When should deputies be issued an expandable baton?
After completing a course of instruction in the proper use and carrying of the expandable baton
What should be done when replacing an expired, defective, or expended canister of OC?
Turn in the old OC canister to the district desk deputy
Why should a verbal warning be issued to subjects before deploying OC?
To provide a chance for the subject to comply
How should OC be sprayed?
In bursts of one second in duration
What should be done with a subject's clothing after they have been sprayed with OC?
Seize the clothing and direct the subject to shower prior to the booking process
What should be done to subjects who have been exposed to OC?
Monitor them and verbally reassure them they will fully recover
What should be done to expedite the recovery period of subjects sprayed with OC?
Allow them to face the wind and/or dab the affected area with a wet towel
What should be done when a subject is armed with OC?
Evaluate the intentions and ability of the subject to use the OC
What is Passive Resistance?
A subject verbally or physically refuses to respond or comply with a deputy's verbal commands.
What is the goal of De-escalation?
To gain compliance from a subject through a combination of dialogue, empathy, and experience.
What is Physical Force?
Force in excess of mere grabbing or touching of a subject.
When should a deputy consider using De-escalation techniques?
When safe and feasible, and the subject's lack of compliance is based on factors such as medical conditions, mental health, mental impairment, etc.
What is the purpose of Proportional Force?
To effectually bring a subject and/or situation under control.
When is Less-Lethal Force used?
When the life of a deputy or others is not at risk.
What is Active Physical Resistance?
A subject makes physically evasive movements to defeat a deputy's attempt to control the subject.
What is the purpose of Dialogue?
To talk a subject into compliance.
When can a deputy use Physical Force?
In self-defense, defense of another, in preventing escape, or to overcome a subject's passive, active, or aggressive physical resistance.
What is prohibited, unless the use of deadly force is justified?
Chokeholds and vascular neck restraints.
What should be done to a person who is unintentionally exposed to OC?
They should be afforded the utmost assistance with recovery until they return to their normal state or condition
What are some unusual symptoms that may require immediate medical attention?
Loss of consciousness, slow shallow breathing, and chest pains
What is the proper way to decontaminate an exposed area?
Flushing the area with gently running water and away from sensitive skin areas
Where should decontamination take place in a confinement cell?
In one of the showers on the respective wing
What is the appropriate response to a subject's resistance?
Using a CEW only for active physical resistance
Who is authorized to use a CEW?
Only sworn law enforcement personnel and select detention personnel who have completed the approved course of instruction
What is the standard duty carry for the Taser 7?
A close-quarter cartridge loaded into bay number 1 and a standoff cartridge loaded into bay number 2
How often should CEW batteries be uploaded into Evidence.com?
Every 30 days
What should be done with washable items seized that are contaminated with OC?
They should be placed in a bag marked, 'Contaminated with OC' and washed immediately
What is the purpose of monthly inspections of CEWs?
To ensure the CEWs are functioning properly and the batteries are at a sufficient level
How often should X26P CEWs be uploaded into Evidence.com?
Quarterly
What is the primary purpose of conducting a function test on a CEW?
To validate the function tests are being completed in accordance with Sheriff's Office policy
When can deputies obtain a replacement CEW?
During non-business hours from a district desk deputy
What should deputies do if their CEW is not functioning properly during business hours?
Contact a certified CEW instructor by phone
How often should X26P users replace their CEW batteries?
When the battery level drops to 20% or lower
What is the correct procedure for spark testing a CEW?
Remove the cartridge and point the CEW in a safe direction
Where can deputies find a list of certified CEW instructors?
In the training portal on the Sheriff's Office Employee Intranet
Why is it important to conduct function tests on CEWs?
All of the above
What is prohibited for deputies regarding CEW batteries?
Taking a spare battery from the CEW battery docking/recharging stations
How should deputies carry their CEWs?
In a cross-draw configuration on their duty belt
Where are all battery replacements for CEW retrieved from?
CEW battery docking/recharging stations
Who is responsible for verifying that all extra batteries are on the charging stations at the beginning of each shift?
Shift Commanders
When should a verbal warning be issued prior to deployment of the CEW?
Always, unless it would create a tactical disadvantage
What should be considered before deploying the CEW?
The totality of the circumstances and environmental factors
What is the purpose of the ARC switch on the CEW?
To produce an auditory and visible 'arcing' without deploying the probes
What is the authorized use of the CEW as a drive/contact stun weapon?
As a pain compliance technique, when necessary, considering exigent circumstances
What are the preferred CEW deployment target areas?
Below the neck for back shots and the lower center mass for front shots
What is the limitation on cycling the CEW on the same subject?
The CEW should not be cycled more than three times, unless exigent circumstances exist
What should sworn personnel be aware of when deploying the CEW?
Both the subject's age and physical ability, and environmental factors and medical conditions
What is a circumstance where the CEW should not be used?
On pregnant subjects, unless exigent or aggravating circumstances exist
When can a CEW be used on a subject in a motor vehicle?
When intervention is absolutely necessary due to exigent or aggravating circumstances and there is an immediate threat to the safety of the public or sworn personnel
Who should remove the probes from a subject who has been struck by a CEW in the face, neck, head, groin, or female breasts?
Medical personnel
What should happen to CEW cartridges and probes if serious injury or death occurs while taking the subject into custody?
They should be impounded as evidence
What should a supervisor do after a CEW is used on a subject?
Immediately advise any receiving facility that a CEW has been used on a subject
What is the first step in the process after an inmate is involved in an incident?
A medical staff member evaluates the inmate.
What should happen to a CEW probe that has struck an inmate in a detention facility?
It should be considered a biological hazard and disposed of as biomedical waste
Who is responsible for downloading information from the CEW during an administrative investigation?
The Professional Standards Bureau supervisor.
Where are spare CEW cartridges and their accessories stored?
In a secure storage box at designated locations in the armories.
What is the minimum time period for which impounded CEW cartridges will be retained as evidence?
4 years
What is the minimum number of hours of training required for basic certification?
8 hours
What should happen to a subject who has been struck by a CEW probe?
They should be seen by medical staff
How often will continuous CEW training occur?
Annually
What is the purpose of the CEW?
To protect sworn personnel and the public
What is the purpose of the LLIM?
To respond to aggressive physical resistance.
What should happen after a CEW is deployed on a subject?
The subject should be handcuffed to minimize the threat of injury
Who is required to carry the 40mm LLIM?
Only patrol corporals.
What should happen to a supervisor who has completed a negligent discharge of the CEW?
They should be subject to progressive disciplinary action
What happens when the LLIM projectile is deployed?
It releases OC and disperses upon impact.
What should be done with the clothing of a subject who has been exposed to OC?
It should be seized by booking personnel and the subject should be directed to a shower.
How long do the effects of OC typically last?
45 minutes
What action should be taken if a person exposed to OC is not showing signs of recovering within the normal expected period of time?
Provide immediate medical attention
What is the minimum period of time that impounded projectiles and casings will be retained as evidence?
4 years
Under what circumstances can a Weapon-Mounted Light be added to an LLIM?
In accordance with GEN SOP 551.00
What is the responsibility of a deputy who observes another deputy using excessive force?
Safely intercede to prevent the use of excessive force and report the incident to a supervisor
When should a deputy render medical aid to an injured person after a use of force incident?
When safe to do so and necessary
What is the responsibility of a supervisor after a use of force incident?
To initiate the applicable BlueTeam Report
What type of training is provided by the Sheriff's Office regarding the use-of-force policies?
Annual In-Service training
What areas of the body should a deputy avoid targeting unless deadly force is authorized?
Head, neck, spine, and groin
Passive Resistance is a type of physical resistance where the subject attempts to defeat a deputy's verbal commands.
False
De-escalation is a process of using physical force to gain compliance from a subject.
False
Less-Lethal Force is used when the life of a deputy or others is at risk.
False
Proportional Force is the same type or degree of force as the subject.
False
Active Physical Resistance is a type of resistance where the subject makes physically evasive movements to defeat a deputy's attempt to control them.
True
Aggressive Physical Resistance is a type of resistance where the subject verbally refuses to respond or comply with a deputy's verbal commands.
False
Deputies should use physical force as the first response to a subject's resistance.
False
Chokeholds and vascular neck restraints are allowed in all situations.
False
The goal of De-escalation is to use physical force to gain compliance from a subject.
False
Physical Force is used to achieve compliance through verbal commands.
False
The Sheriff's Office standard operating procedure guidelines for the use of less-lethal force only apply to sworn personnel performing administrative duties.
False
A chokehold is defined as any hold involving contact with another person’s neck.
False
A Conducted Energy Weapon (CEW) is a type of lethal force.
False
Excessive use of force is permitted by law, policy, or the observing officer’s employing agency.
False
A deputy involved in a use-of-force incident is not required to inform a supervisor.
False
A Vascular Neck Restraint is a type of lethal force.
False
A person who is experiencing unusual symptoms after exposure to OC should be afforded immediate medical attention.
True
Decontamination of an exposed area should be done with soap and lotion.
False
The standard operating procedure guidelines for the use of less-lethal force are only applicable in accordance with State Law.
False
A CEW should be used for any level of resistance from a subject.
False
The Graham v. Connor case is irrelevant to determining whether the use of force was objectively reasonable.
False
Only sworn law enforcement personnel are authorized to use a CEW.
False
Deputies can use an expandable baton to combat any force less than 'aggressive physical resistance'.
False
The Taser 7 CEW users should be issued three cartridges.
False
Decontamination for confinement cells should take place in the intake shower area.
False
OC is an organic extract of cayenne pepper that acts as a sedative to the eyes and mucous membranes.
False
Deputies can use OC for anything less than 'active physical resistance' from a subject who is about to be taken into custody.
False
All non-washable items seized that are contaminated with OC should be placed in a bag marked 'Contaminated with OC' and forwarded to the Property Room.
True
Deputies must turn in the old OC canister when a replacement is issued.
True
Monthly inspections of CEWs are conducted to ensure the CEWs are functioning properly.
True
The CEW batteries need to be uploaded into Evidence.com every 60 days.
False
A verbal warning should not be issued to all persons about to be sprayed with OC.
False
Washable items seized that are contaminated with OC should be placed in a bag marked 'Contaminated with OC' and thrown away.
False
OC should be sprayed in a continuous stream.
False
The possession of an OC canister by another subject necessarily creates a threat of imminent death or great bodily harm.
False
Subjects who have been sprayed with OC should not be allowed to face the wind to expedite the recovery period.
False
Deputies should not monitor and verbally reassure subjects who have been sprayed with OC that they will fully recover and the effects will subside in approximately 45 minutes.
False
Changes, alterations, modifications, or substitutions can be made to the expandable baton.
False
Deputies are required to function test their CEWs daily prior to the start of their shift.
False
Spark testing the CEW will activate body worn cameras in the immediate vicinity.
False
The purpose of the function test is to ensure the CEW's laser beam is not off sight.
True
During non-business hours, deputies can obtain a replacement CEW from a certified CEW instructor.
False
Taser 7 users will replace their CEW batteries every 30 days.
True
Deputies can take a spare battery from the CEW battery docking/recharging stations.
False
Deputies are prohibited from being in possession of more than two batteries.
False
The X26P CEW should be uploaded into Evidence.com monthly.
False
Spark testing the X26P CEW should be done by removing the cartridge and keeping the cartridge away from the handle.
True
A list of certified CEW instructors can be found in the Sheriff's Office Employee Intranet.
True
Sworn personnel's decision to deploy the CEW on a subject should be predicated upon the subject clearly exhibiting behavior that would cause harm only to themselves.
False
The CEW can be used on animals in any circumstance.
False
Sworn personnel should remove the probes from the subject immediately after deploying the CEW.
False
Probes that have struck the face, neck, head, groin, or female breasts can be removed by sworn personnel.
False
CEW cartridges and probes should be disposed of as biomedical waste in a marked, 'Sharps Container' after every use.
False
Sworn personnel should notify their supervisor immediately after deploying the CEW on a subject, but only if the subject is injured.
False
Detention personnel should not remove the probes from the inmate after a CEW has been deployed.
False
Any inmate who has been struck by a CEW probe should be seen by medical staff immediately.
True
CEW probes that have struck an inmate should be disposed of as regular trash.
False
The CEW can be used on women who are known to be, or appear to be, pregnant without exigent or aggravating circumstances.
False
Supervisors should review any available video when conducting an investigation into the use of force involving a CEW.
True
The ARC switch on the CEW can be used to deploy the probes without warning.
False
The drive stun may be utilized as a pain compliance technique without exigent, mitigating, or aggravating circumstances.
False
The preferred CEW deployment target areas are on the face and chest area.
False
The CEW can be cycled more than three times on the same subject without exigent circumstances.
False
Sworn personnel shall discharge a CEW near flammable liquids or fumes.
False
The CEW can be used on handcuffed subjects without exigent or aggravating circumstances.
False
Deputies should not monitor the subject's vital signs and notify emergency medical services (EMS) to respond after deploying the CEW.
False
The CEW can be used on fleeing persons without considering the totality of the circumstances.
False
All battery replacements for CEW are retrieved from the district offices.
False
A deputy who observes another deputy using excessive force must safely intercede to prevent the use of force.
False
Deputies involved in an incident that requires the use of force must render appropriate medical aid immediately after the incident.
False
The Sheriff's Office provides In-Service training regarding the use-of-force policies every two years.
False
Deputies are required to report any observations of excessive force to a supervisor.
True
A person who is unintentionally exposed to OC should be afforded immediate medical attention.
False
LLIM projectiles and casings will only be impounded if serious injury or death occurs while taking the subject into custody.
True
Deputies are prohibited from targeting the head, neck, spine, or groin unless deadly force is authorized.
True
Loss of consciousness, profuse sweating, and chest pains are normal symptoms associated with the use of chemical munitions.
False
A medical staff member will evaluate the inmate(s) involved in the incident at the latest opportunity following the incident.
False
The Training Division is responsible for the issuance and inventory of the CEW, but not the replacement.
False
Replacement cartridges and batteries can be obtained from any office.
False
Basic certification will require each trainee to participate in a minimum of 12 hours of training.
False
Continuous CEW training will occur every two years.
False
Sworn personnel are prohibited from teaching non-law enforcement citizens in the use of CEWs without authorization.
True
A verbal warning is not required prior to deployment of the LLIM.
False
OC LLIM does not contaminate others.
False
Subjects exposed to OC should be kept in a confined area to expedite the recovery period.
False
Booking personnel are required to seize the clothing of all subjects who have had an OC LLIM used on them.
True
Study Notes
Purpose and Scope
- The purpose of this standard operating procedure is to provide guidelines for the use of less-lethal force by sworn personnel of the Sheriff's Office.
- This procedure applies to all sworn personnel.
Definition of Key Terms
- Chokehold: the intentional and prolonged application of force to the throat, windpipe, or airway of another person that prevents the intake of air.
- Conducted Energy Weapon (CEW): a device that uses less than lethal force utilizing energy to stun a target into compliance.
- Excessive Use of Force: a use of force that exceeds the degree of force permitted by law, policy, or the observing officer's employing agency.
- Vascular Neck Restraint: any use-of-force technique intended to gain control of a subject by restricting blood flow to the brain for the purpose of incapacitation.
Resistance and Response Levels
- Levels of Subject Resistance:
- Passive Resistance: verbal or physical refusal to comply with a deputy's verbal commands.
- Active Physical Resistance: physically evasive movements to defeat a deputy's attempt to control the subject.
- Aggressive Physical Resistance: overt, hostile, threatening, or attacking movements that may cause injury.
- Levels of Deputy Response:
- Dialogue: talking a subject into compliance using verbal commands.
- De-escalation: the process of defusing a tense situation using a combination of dialogue, empathy, and experience.
- Physical Force: force in excess of mere grabbing or touching of a subject.
- Less-Lethal Force: force that is not likely or intended to cause death or great bodily harm to a subject.
Procedure
- Dialogue/De-escalation:
- De-escalation techniques include mitigating the immediacy of the threat, establishing communication, and using verbal techniques to promote rational decision making by the subject.
- Consideration should be given to a subject's lack of compliance being due to medical conditions, mental health, etc.
- Physical Force:
- Physical force may be used in self-defense, defense of another, in preventing escape, or to overcome a subject's passive, active, or aggressive physical resistance to lawful orders or to being taken into custody.
- Chokeholds and vascular neck restraints are prohibited, unless the use of deadly force is justified.
Less-Lethal Force
- Expandable Baton:
- May be an appropriate response to a subject's resistance.
- Should not be used for anything less than "aggressive physical resistance".
- Deputies shall be issued an expandable baton only after successful completion of a course of instruction.
- Oleoresin Capsicum (OC) Agent:
- May be an appropriate response to a subject's resistance.
- Should not be used for anything less than "active physical resistance".
- Deputies shall be issued OC only after successful completion of a course of instruction.
- Verbal warning shall be issued prior to deployment of the OC, except when such warning would create a tactical disadvantage for the deputy.
- Conducted Energy Weapon (CEW):
- May be an appropriate response to a subject's resistance.
- Should not be used for anything less than "active physical resistance".
- Deputies shall be issued a CEW only after successful completion of a course of instruction.
- The CEW shall be carried in a Sheriff's Office approved holster on the sworn personnel's duty belt.### CEW Deployment
- The CEW shall not be cycled more than three times on the same subject, unless exigent circumstances exist.
- Deployment of the CEW can exacerbate medical conditions, such as Excited Delirium, and may require the involvement of trained medical personnel.
- Deputies should monitor the subject's vital signs and notify emergency medical services (EMS) to respond, when practical and safe to do so.
Circumstances to Avoid CEW Deployment
- CEW shall not be used near flammable liquids or fumes.
- CEW shall not be used on pregnant women, unless exigent or aggravating circumstances exist.
- CEW shall not be used on handcuffed subjects, unless exigent or aggravating circumstances exist.
- CEW shall not be used on fleeing subjects, unless the totality of the circumstances and the considerations outlined in the procedure justify its use.
- CEW shall not be used on subjects in physical control of a motor vehicle, unless intervention is absolutely necessary due to exigent or aggravating circumstances.
Post-CEW Deployment Procedures
- Sworn personnel shall handcuff the subject to minimize the threat of injury.
- Probes shall be removed at the earliest opportunity by sworn personnel who have completed the agency-approved training.
- Probes that have struck the face, neck, head, groin, or female breasts shall only be removed by medical personnel.
- CEW cartridges and probes shall be impounded if serious injury or death occurs while taking the subject into custody.
CEW Training and Accountability
- Any intentional discharge of the CEW requires immediate notification of a supervisor.
- Negligent discharge of the CEW shall result in a memorandum to the Training Division and may result in progressive disciplinary action.
- The Training Division shall maintain a list of deputies who have had a negligent discharge.
Detention Procedures
- An investigation into the use of force will be conducted for any incident involving the CEW within detention facilities.
- A detention supervisor/deputy will remove the probes at the earliest opportunity.
- CEW probes that have struck the inmate's face, neck, groin, or female breasts shall only be removed by medical staff.
- Any inmate who has been struck by a CEW probe must be seen by medical staff.
40mm Less Lethal Launcher and OC Impact Munition (LLIM)
- The deployment of a LLIM may be an appropriate response to "aggressive physical resistance" by a subject.
- Patrol corporals and other approved sworn personnel must successfully complete the course of instruction on the proper use and carrying of the LLIM.
- A verbal warning shall be issued prior to deployment of the LLIM, except when such warning would create a tactical disadvantage for the deputy.
- Sworn personnel shall immediately advise any receiving facility (e.g., jail, crisis center, hospital) when OC has been used on a subject.
Handling Subjects Exposed to OC
- Subjects exposed to OC should be monitored and verbally reassured they will fully recover and the effects will subside in approximately 45 minutes.
- Provided the subject is compliant and when conditions permit, subjects exposed to OC should be allowed to face the wind and/or dab with a wet towel to expedite the recovery period.
- Any person unintentionally exposed to OC should be afforded the utmost assistance with recovery until they return to their normal state or condition.
Purpose and Scope
- The purpose of this standard operating procedure is to provide guidelines for the use of less-lethal force by sworn personnel of the Sheriff's Office.
- This procedure applies to all sworn personnel.
Definition of Key Terms
- Chokehold: the intentional and prolonged application of force to the throat, windpipe, or airway of another person that prevents the intake of air.
- Conducted Energy Weapon (CEW): a device that uses less than lethal force utilizing energy to stun a target into compliance.
- Excessive Use of Force: a use of force that exceeds the degree of force permitted by law, policy, or the observing officer's employing agency.
- Vascular Neck Restraint: any use-of-force technique intended to gain control of a subject by restricting blood flow to the brain for the purpose of incapacitation.
Resistance and Response Levels
- Levels of Subject Resistance:
- Passive Resistance: verbal or physical refusal to comply with a deputy's verbal commands.
- Active Physical Resistance: physically evasive movements to defeat a deputy's attempt to control the subject.
- Aggressive Physical Resistance: overt, hostile, threatening, or attacking movements that may cause injury.
- Levels of Deputy Response:
- Dialogue: talking a subject into compliance using verbal commands.
- De-escalation: the process of defusing a tense situation using a combination of dialogue, empathy, and experience.
- Physical Force: force in excess of mere grabbing or touching of a subject.
- Less-Lethal Force: force that is not likely or intended to cause death or great bodily harm to a subject.
Procedure
- Dialogue/De-escalation:
- De-escalation techniques include mitigating the immediacy of the threat, establishing communication, and using verbal techniques to promote rational decision making by the subject.
- Consideration should be given to a subject's lack of compliance being due to medical conditions, mental health, etc.
- Physical Force:
- Physical force may be used in self-defense, defense of another, in preventing escape, or to overcome a subject's passive, active, or aggressive physical resistance to lawful orders or to being taken into custody.
- Chokeholds and vascular neck restraints are prohibited, unless the use of deadly force is justified.
Less-Lethal Force
- Expandable Baton:
- May be an appropriate response to a subject's resistance.
- Should not be used for anything less than "aggressive physical resistance".
- Deputies shall be issued an expandable baton only after successful completion of a course of instruction.
- Oleoresin Capsicum (OC) Agent:
- May be an appropriate response to a subject's resistance.
- Should not be used for anything less than "active physical resistance".
- Deputies shall be issued OC only after successful completion of a course of instruction.
- Verbal warning shall be issued prior to deployment of the OC, except when such warning would create a tactical disadvantage for the deputy.
- Conducted Energy Weapon (CEW):
- May be an appropriate response to a subject's resistance.
- Should not be used for anything less than "active physical resistance".
- Deputies shall be issued a CEW only after successful completion of a course of instruction.
- The CEW shall be carried in a Sheriff's Office approved holster on the sworn personnel's duty belt.### CEW Deployment
- The CEW shall not be cycled more than three times on the same subject, unless exigent circumstances exist.
- Deployment of the CEW can exacerbate medical conditions, such as Excited Delirium, and may require the involvement of trained medical personnel.
- Deputies should monitor the subject's vital signs and notify emergency medical services (EMS) to respond, when practical and safe to do so.
Circumstances to Avoid CEW Deployment
- CEW shall not be used near flammable liquids or fumes.
- CEW shall not be used on pregnant women, unless exigent or aggravating circumstances exist.
- CEW shall not be used on handcuffed subjects, unless exigent or aggravating circumstances exist.
- CEW shall not be used on fleeing subjects, unless the totality of the circumstances and the considerations outlined in the procedure justify its use.
- CEW shall not be used on subjects in physical control of a motor vehicle, unless intervention is absolutely necessary due to exigent or aggravating circumstances.
Post-CEW Deployment Procedures
- Sworn personnel shall handcuff the subject to minimize the threat of injury.
- Probes shall be removed at the earliest opportunity by sworn personnel who have completed the agency-approved training.
- Probes that have struck the face, neck, head, groin, or female breasts shall only be removed by medical personnel.
- CEW cartridges and probes shall be impounded if serious injury or death occurs while taking the subject into custody.
CEW Training and Accountability
- Any intentional discharge of the CEW requires immediate notification of a supervisor.
- Negligent discharge of the CEW shall result in a memorandum to the Training Division and may result in progressive disciplinary action.
- The Training Division shall maintain a list of deputies who have had a negligent discharge.
Detention Procedures
- An investigation into the use of force will be conducted for any incident involving the CEW within detention facilities.
- A detention supervisor/deputy will remove the probes at the earliest opportunity.
- CEW probes that have struck the inmate's face, neck, groin, or female breasts shall only be removed by medical staff.
- Any inmate who has been struck by a CEW probe must be seen by medical staff.
40mm Less Lethal Launcher and OC Impact Munition (LLIM)
- The deployment of a LLIM may be an appropriate response to "aggressive physical resistance" by a subject.
- Patrol corporals and other approved sworn personnel must successfully complete the course of instruction on the proper use and carrying of the LLIM.
- A verbal warning shall be issued prior to deployment of the LLIM, except when such warning would create a tactical disadvantage for the deputy.
- Sworn personnel shall immediately advise any receiving facility (e.g., jail, crisis center, hospital) when OC has been used on a subject.
Handling Subjects Exposed to OC
- Subjects exposed to OC should be monitored and verbally reassured they will fully recover and the effects will subside in approximately 45 minutes.
- Provided the subject is compliant and when conditions permit, subjects exposed to OC should be allowed to face the wind and/or dab with a wet towel to expedite the recovery period.
- Any person unintentionally exposed to OC should be afforded the utmost assistance with recovery until they return to their normal state or condition.
This quiz covers the guidelines for the use of less-lethal force by sworn personnel of the Sheriff's Office, in accordance with State Law, Federal Law, and Fourth Amendment standards. It outlines the level of force that is objectively reasonable.
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