Podcast
Questions and Answers
What is the purpose of this standard operating procedure?
What is the purpose of this standard operating procedure?
- To provide guidelines for the use of force by civilian personnel of the Sheriff's Office
- To provide guidelines for the use of less-lethal force by sworn personnel of the Sheriff's Office (correct)
- To provide guidelines for the use of force by state law enforcement agencies
- To provide guidelines for the use of deadly force by sworn personnel of the Sheriff's Office
What is the scope of this standard operating procedure?
What is the scope of this standard operating procedure?
- It applies to federal law enforcement agencies only
- It applies to civilian personnel of the Sheriff's Office and state law enforcement agencies
- It applies to all sworn personnel of the Sheriff's Office (correct)
- It applies to all sworn personnel of the Sheriff's Office and state law enforcement agencies
What is the standard for determining the use of force according to the U.S. Supreme Court?
What is the standard for determining the use of force according to the U.S. Supreme Court?
- The use of force must be in accordance with federal law
- The use of force must be in accordance with the Sheriff's Office policy
- The use of force must be approved by a supervisor
- The use of force must be reasonable in light of the surrounding facts and circumstances (correct)
What is the responsibility of each deputy involved in a use-of-force incident?
What is the responsibility of each deputy involved in a use-of-force incident?
What is a chokehold, as defined in the standard operating procedure?
What is a chokehold, as defined in the standard operating procedure?
What is a Conducted Energy Weapon (CEW)?
What is a Conducted Energy Weapon (CEW)?
What is excessive use of force, as defined in the standard operating procedure?
What is excessive use of force, as defined in the standard operating procedure?
What is the responsibility of each deputy involved when a subject is injured during the use of a restraint device?
What is the responsibility of each deputy involved when a subject is injured during the use of a restraint device?
What is the minimum level of resistance required for an expandable baton to be used?
What is the minimum level of resistance required for an expandable baton to be used?
What is the purpose of the OC agent?
What is the purpose of the OC agent?
When should deputies be issued an expandable baton?
When should deputies be issued an expandable baton?
What should be done when replacing an expired, defective, or expended canister of OC?
What should be done when replacing an expired, defective, or expended canister of OC?
Why should a verbal warning be issued to subjects before deploying OC?
Why should a verbal warning be issued to subjects before deploying OC?
How should OC be sprayed?
How should OC be sprayed?
What should be done with a subject's clothing after they have been sprayed with OC?
What should be done with a subject's clothing after they have been sprayed with OC?
What should be done to subjects who have been exposed to OC?
What should be done to subjects who have been exposed to OC?
What should be done to expedite the recovery period of subjects sprayed with OC?
What should be done to expedite the recovery period of subjects sprayed with OC?
What should be done when a subject is armed with OC?
What should be done when a subject is armed with OC?
What is Passive Resistance?
What is Passive Resistance?
What is the goal of De-escalation?
What is the goal of De-escalation?
What is Physical Force?
What is Physical Force?
When should a deputy consider using De-escalation techniques?
When should a deputy consider using De-escalation techniques?
What is the purpose of Proportional Force?
What is the purpose of Proportional Force?
When is Less-Lethal Force used?
When is Less-Lethal Force used?
What is Active Physical Resistance?
What is Active Physical Resistance?
What is the purpose of Dialogue?
What is the purpose of Dialogue?
When can a deputy use Physical Force?
When can a deputy use Physical Force?
What is prohibited, unless the use of deadly force is justified?
What is prohibited, unless the use of deadly force is justified?
What should be done to a person who is unintentionally exposed to OC?
What should be done to a person who is unintentionally exposed to OC?
What are some unusual symptoms that may require immediate medical attention?
What are some unusual symptoms that may require immediate medical attention?
What is the proper way to decontaminate an exposed area?
What is the proper way to decontaminate an exposed area?
Where should decontamination take place in a confinement cell?
Where should decontamination take place in a confinement cell?
What is the appropriate response to a subject's resistance?
What is the appropriate response to a subject's resistance?
Who is authorized to use a CEW?
Who is authorized to use a CEW?
What is the standard duty carry for the Taser 7?
What is the standard duty carry for the Taser 7?
How often should CEW batteries be uploaded into Evidence.com?
How often should CEW batteries be uploaded into Evidence.com?
What should be done with washable items seized that are contaminated with OC?
What should be done with washable items seized that are contaminated with OC?
What is the purpose of monthly inspections of CEWs?
What is the purpose of monthly inspections of CEWs?
How often should X26P CEWs be uploaded into Evidence.com?
How often should X26P CEWs be uploaded into Evidence.com?
What is the primary purpose of conducting a function test on a CEW?
What is the primary purpose of conducting a function test on a CEW?
When can deputies obtain a replacement CEW?
When can deputies obtain a replacement CEW?
What should deputies do if their CEW is not functioning properly during business hours?
What should deputies do if their CEW is not functioning properly during business hours?
How often should X26P users replace their CEW batteries?
How often should X26P users replace their CEW batteries?
What is the correct procedure for spark testing a CEW?
What is the correct procedure for spark testing a CEW?
Where can deputies find a list of certified CEW instructors?
Where can deputies find a list of certified CEW instructors?
Why is it important to conduct function tests on CEWs?
Why is it important to conduct function tests on CEWs?
What is prohibited for deputies regarding CEW batteries?
What is prohibited for deputies regarding CEW batteries?
How should deputies carry their CEWs?
How should deputies carry their CEWs?
Where are all battery replacements for CEW retrieved from?
Where are all battery replacements for CEW retrieved from?
Who is responsible for verifying that all extra batteries are on the charging stations at the beginning of each shift?
Who is responsible for verifying that all extra batteries are on the charging stations at the beginning of each shift?
When should a verbal warning be issued prior to deployment of the CEW?
When should a verbal warning be issued prior to deployment of the CEW?
What should be considered before deploying the CEW?
What should be considered before deploying the CEW?
What is the purpose of the ARC switch on the CEW?
What is the purpose of the ARC switch on the CEW?
What is the authorized use of the CEW as a drive/contact stun weapon?
What is the authorized use of the CEW as a drive/contact stun weapon?
What are the preferred CEW deployment target areas?
What are the preferred CEW deployment target areas?
What is the limitation on cycling the CEW on the same subject?
What is the limitation on cycling the CEW on the same subject?
What should sworn personnel be aware of when deploying the CEW?
What should sworn personnel be aware of when deploying the CEW?
What is a circumstance where the CEW should not be used?
What is a circumstance where the CEW should not be used?
When can a CEW be used on a subject in a motor vehicle?
When can a CEW be used on a subject in a motor vehicle?
Who should remove the probes from a subject who has been struck by a CEW in the face, neck, head, groin, or female breasts?
Who should remove the probes from a subject who has been struck by a CEW in the face, neck, head, groin, or female breasts?
What should happen to CEW cartridges and probes if serious injury or death occurs while taking the subject into custody?
What should happen to CEW cartridges and probes if serious injury or death occurs while taking the subject into custody?
What should a supervisor do after a CEW is used on a subject?
What should a supervisor do after a CEW is used on a subject?
What is the first step in the process after an inmate is involved in an incident?
What is the first step in the process after an inmate is involved in an incident?
What should happen to a CEW probe that has struck an inmate in a detention facility?
What should happen to a CEW probe that has struck an inmate in a detention facility?
Who is responsible for downloading information from the CEW during an administrative investigation?
Who is responsible for downloading information from the CEW during an administrative investigation?
Where are spare CEW cartridges and their accessories stored?
Where are spare CEW cartridges and their accessories stored?
What is the minimum time period for which impounded CEW cartridges will be retained as evidence?
What is the minimum time period for which impounded CEW cartridges will be retained as evidence?
What is the minimum number of hours of training required for basic certification?
What is the minimum number of hours of training required for basic certification?
What should happen to a subject who has been struck by a CEW probe?
What should happen to a subject who has been struck by a CEW probe?
How often will continuous CEW training occur?
How often will continuous CEW training occur?
What is the purpose of the CEW?
What is the purpose of the CEW?
What is the purpose of the LLIM?
What is the purpose of the LLIM?
What should happen after a CEW is deployed on a subject?
What should happen after a CEW is deployed on a subject?
Who is required to carry the 40mm LLIM?
Who is required to carry the 40mm LLIM?
What should happen to a supervisor who has completed a negligent discharge of the CEW?
What should happen to a supervisor who has completed a negligent discharge of the CEW?
What happens when the LLIM projectile is deployed?
What happens when the LLIM projectile is deployed?
What should be done with the clothing of a subject who has been exposed to OC?
What should be done with the clothing of a subject who has been exposed to OC?
How long do the effects of OC typically last?
How long do the effects of OC typically last?
What action should be taken if a person exposed to OC is not showing signs of recovering within the normal expected period of time?
What action should be taken if a person exposed to OC is not showing signs of recovering within the normal expected period of time?
What is the minimum period of time that impounded projectiles and casings will be retained as evidence?
What is the minimum period of time that impounded projectiles and casings will be retained as evidence?
Under what circumstances can a Weapon-Mounted Light be added to an LLIM?
Under what circumstances can a Weapon-Mounted Light be added to an LLIM?
What is the responsibility of a deputy who observes another deputy using excessive force?
What is the responsibility of a deputy who observes another deputy using excessive force?
When should a deputy render medical aid to an injured person after a use of force incident?
When should a deputy render medical aid to an injured person after a use of force incident?
What is the responsibility of a supervisor after a use of force incident?
What is the responsibility of a supervisor after a use of force incident?
What type of training is provided by the Sheriff's Office regarding the use-of-force policies?
What type of training is provided by the Sheriff's Office regarding the use-of-force policies?
What areas of the body should a deputy avoid targeting unless deadly force is authorized?
What areas of the body should a deputy avoid targeting unless deadly force is authorized?
Passive Resistance is a type of physical resistance where the subject attempts to defeat a deputy's verbal commands.
Passive Resistance is a type of physical resistance where the subject attempts to defeat a deputy's verbal commands.
De-escalation is a process of using physical force to gain compliance from a subject.
De-escalation is a process of using physical force to gain compliance from a subject.
Less-Lethal Force is used when the life of a deputy or others is at risk.
Less-Lethal Force is used when the life of a deputy or others is at risk.
Proportional Force is the same type or degree of force as the subject.
Proportional Force is the same type or degree of force as the subject.
Active Physical Resistance is a type of resistance where the subject makes physically evasive movements to defeat a deputy's attempt to control them.
Active Physical Resistance is a type of resistance where the subject makes physically evasive movements to defeat a deputy's attempt to control them.
Aggressive Physical Resistance is a type of resistance where the subject verbally refuses to respond or comply with a deputy's verbal commands.
Aggressive Physical Resistance is a type of resistance where the subject verbally refuses to respond or comply with a deputy's verbal commands.
Deputies should use physical force as the first response to a subject's resistance.
Deputies should use physical force as the first response to a subject's resistance.
Chokeholds and vascular neck restraints are allowed in all situations.
Chokeholds and vascular neck restraints are allowed in all situations.
The goal of De-escalation is to use physical force to gain compliance from a subject.
The goal of De-escalation is to use physical force to gain compliance from a subject.
Physical Force is used to achieve compliance through verbal commands.
Physical Force is used to achieve compliance through verbal commands.
The Sheriff's Office standard operating procedure guidelines for the use of less-lethal force only apply to sworn personnel performing administrative duties.
The Sheriff's Office standard operating procedure guidelines for the use of less-lethal force only apply to sworn personnel performing administrative duties.
A chokehold is defined as any hold involving contact with another person’s neck.
A chokehold is defined as any hold involving contact with another person’s neck.
A Conducted Energy Weapon (CEW) is a type of lethal force.
A Conducted Energy Weapon (CEW) is a type of lethal force.
Excessive use of force is permitted by law, policy, or the observing officer’s employing agency.
Excessive use of force is permitted by law, policy, or the observing officer’s employing agency.
A deputy involved in a use-of-force incident is not required to inform a supervisor.
A deputy involved in a use-of-force incident is not required to inform a supervisor.
A Vascular Neck Restraint is a type of lethal force.
A Vascular Neck Restraint is a type of lethal force.
A person who is experiencing unusual symptoms after exposure to OC should be afforded immediate medical attention.
A person who is experiencing unusual symptoms after exposure to OC should be afforded immediate medical attention.
Decontamination of an exposed area should be done with soap and lotion.
Decontamination of an exposed area should be done with soap and lotion.
The standard operating procedure guidelines for the use of less-lethal force are only applicable in accordance with State Law.
The standard operating procedure guidelines for the use of less-lethal force are only applicable in accordance with State Law.
A CEW should be used for any level of resistance from a subject.
A CEW should be used for any level of resistance from a subject.
The Graham v. Connor case is irrelevant to determining whether the use of force was objectively reasonable.
The Graham v. Connor case is irrelevant to determining whether the use of force was objectively reasonable.
Only sworn law enforcement personnel are authorized to use a CEW.
Only sworn law enforcement personnel are authorized to use a CEW.
Deputies can use an expandable baton to combat any force less than 'aggressive physical resistance'.
Deputies can use an expandable baton to combat any force less than 'aggressive physical resistance'.
The Taser 7 CEW users should be issued three cartridges.
The Taser 7 CEW users should be issued three cartridges.
Decontamination for confinement cells should take place in the intake shower area.
Decontamination for confinement cells should take place in the intake shower area.
OC is an organic extract of cayenne pepper that acts as a sedative to the eyes and mucous membranes.
OC is an organic extract of cayenne pepper that acts as a sedative to the eyes and mucous membranes.
Deputies can use OC for anything less than 'active physical resistance' from a subject who is about to be taken into custody.
Deputies can use OC for anything less than 'active physical resistance' from a subject who is about to be taken into custody.
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.
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.
Deputies must turn in the old OC canister when a replacement is issued.
Deputies must turn in the old OC canister when a replacement is issued.
Monthly inspections of CEWs are conducted to ensure the CEWs are functioning properly.
Monthly inspections of CEWs are conducted to ensure the CEWs are functioning properly.
The CEW batteries need to be uploaded into Evidence.com every 60 days.
The CEW batteries need to be uploaded into Evidence.com every 60 days.
A verbal warning should not be issued to all persons about to be sprayed with OC.
A verbal warning should not be issued to all persons about to be sprayed with OC.
Washable items seized that are contaminated with OC should be placed in a bag marked 'Contaminated with OC' and thrown away.
Washable items seized that are contaminated with OC should be placed in a bag marked 'Contaminated with OC' and thrown away.
OC should be sprayed in a continuous stream.
OC should be sprayed in a continuous stream.
The possession of an OC canister by another subject necessarily creates a threat of imminent death or great bodily harm.
The possession of an OC canister by another subject necessarily creates a threat of imminent death or great bodily harm.
Subjects who have been sprayed with OC should not be allowed to face the wind to expedite the recovery period.
Subjects who have been sprayed with OC should not be allowed to face the wind to expedite the recovery period.
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.
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.
Changes, alterations, modifications, or substitutions can be made to the expandable baton.
Changes, alterations, modifications, or substitutions can be made to the expandable baton.
Deputies are required to function test their CEWs daily prior to the start of their shift.
Deputies are required to function test their CEWs daily prior to the start of their shift.
Spark testing the CEW will activate body worn cameras in the immediate vicinity.
Spark testing the CEW will activate body worn cameras in the immediate vicinity.
The purpose of the function test is to ensure the CEW's laser beam is not off sight.
The purpose of the function test is to ensure the CEW's laser beam is not off sight.
During non-business hours, deputies can obtain a replacement CEW from a certified CEW instructor.
During non-business hours, deputies can obtain a replacement CEW from a certified CEW instructor.
Taser 7 users will replace their CEW batteries every 30 days.
Taser 7 users will replace their CEW batteries every 30 days.
Deputies can take a spare battery from the CEW battery docking/recharging stations.
Deputies can take a spare battery from the CEW battery docking/recharging stations.
Deputies are prohibited from being in possession of more than two batteries.
Deputies are prohibited from being in possession of more than two batteries.
The X26P CEW should be uploaded into Evidence.com monthly.
The X26P CEW should be uploaded into Evidence.com monthly.
Spark testing the X26P CEW should be done by removing the cartridge and keeping the cartridge away from the handle.
Spark testing the X26P CEW should be done by removing the cartridge and keeping the cartridge away from the handle.
A list of certified CEW instructors can be found in the Sheriff's Office Employee Intranet.
A list of certified CEW instructors can be found in the Sheriff's Office Employee Intranet.
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.
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.
The CEW can be used on animals in any circumstance.
The CEW can be used on animals in any circumstance.
Sworn personnel should remove the probes from the subject immediately after deploying the CEW.
Sworn personnel should remove the probes from the subject immediately after deploying the CEW.
Probes that have struck the face, neck, head, groin, or female breasts can be removed by sworn personnel.
Probes that have struck the face, neck, head, groin, or female breasts can be removed by sworn personnel.
CEW cartridges and probes should be disposed of as biomedical waste in a marked, 'Sharps Container' after every use.
CEW cartridges and probes should be disposed of as biomedical waste in a marked, 'Sharps Container' after every use.
Sworn personnel should notify their supervisor immediately after deploying the CEW on a subject, but only if the subject is injured.
Sworn personnel should notify their supervisor immediately after deploying the CEW on a subject, but only if the subject is injured.
Detention personnel should not remove the probes from the inmate after a CEW has been deployed.
Detention personnel should not remove the probes from the inmate after a CEW has been deployed.
Any inmate who has been struck by a CEW probe should be seen by medical staff immediately.
Any inmate who has been struck by a CEW probe should be seen by medical staff immediately.
CEW probes that have struck an inmate should be disposed of as regular trash.
CEW probes that have struck an inmate should be disposed of as regular trash.
The CEW can be used on women who are known to be, or appear to be, pregnant without exigent or aggravating circumstances.
The CEW can be used on women who are known to be, or appear to be, pregnant without exigent or aggravating circumstances.
Supervisors should review any available video when conducting an investigation into the use of force involving a CEW.
Supervisors should review any available video when conducting an investigation into the use of force involving a CEW.
The ARC switch on the CEW can be used to deploy the probes without warning.
The ARC switch on the CEW can be used to deploy the probes without warning.
The drive stun may be utilized as a pain compliance technique without exigent, mitigating, or aggravating circumstances.
The drive stun may be utilized as a pain compliance technique without exigent, mitigating, or aggravating circumstances.
The preferred CEW deployment target areas are on the face and chest area.
The preferred CEW deployment target areas are on the face and chest area.
The CEW can be cycled more than three times on the same subject without exigent circumstances.
The CEW can be cycled more than three times on the same subject without exigent circumstances.
Sworn personnel shall discharge a CEW near flammable liquids or fumes.
Sworn personnel shall discharge a CEW near flammable liquids or fumes.
The CEW can be used on handcuffed subjects without exigent or aggravating circumstances.
The CEW can be used on handcuffed subjects without exigent or aggravating circumstances.
Deputies should not monitor the subject's vital signs and notify emergency medical services (EMS) to respond after deploying the CEW.
Deputies should not monitor the subject's vital signs and notify emergency medical services (EMS) to respond after deploying the CEW.
The CEW can be used on fleeing persons without considering the totality of the circumstances.
The CEW can be used on fleeing persons without considering the totality of the circumstances.
All battery replacements for CEW are retrieved from the district offices.
All battery replacements for CEW are retrieved from the district offices.
A deputy who observes another deputy using excessive force must safely intercede to prevent the use of force.
A deputy who observes another deputy using excessive force must safely intercede to prevent the use of force.
Deputies involved in an incident that requires the use of force must render appropriate medical aid immediately after the incident.
Deputies involved in an incident that requires the use of force must render appropriate medical aid immediately after the incident.
The Sheriff's Office provides In-Service training regarding the use-of-force policies every two years.
The Sheriff's Office provides In-Service training regarding the use-of-force policies every two years.
Deputies are required to report any observations of excessive force to a supervisor.
Deputies are required to report any observations of excessive force to a supervisor.
A person who is unintentionally exposed to OC should be afforded immediate medical attention.
A person who is unintentionally exposed to OC should be afforded immediate medical attention.
LLIM projectiles and casings will only be impounded if serious injury or death occurs while taking the subject into custody.
LLIM projectiles and casings will only be impounded if serious injury or death occurs while taking the subject into custody.
Deputies are prohibited from targeting the head, neck, spine, or groin unless deadly force is authorized.
Deputies are prohibited from targeting the head, neck, spine, or groin unless deadly force is authorized.
Loss of consciousness, profuse sweating, and chest pains are normal symptoms associated with the use of chemical munitions.
Loss of consciousness, profuse sweating, and chest pains are normal symptoms associated with the use of chemical munitions.
A medical staff member will evaluate the inmate(s) involved in the incident at the latest opportunity following the incident.
A medical staff member will evaluate the inmate(s) involved in the incident at the latest opportunity following the incident.
The Training Division is responsible for the issuance and inventory of the CEW, but not the replacement.
The Training Division is responsible for the issuance and inventory of the CEW, but not the replacement.
Replacement cartridges and batteries can be obtained from any office.
Replacement cartridges and batteries can be obtained from any office.
Basic certification will require each trainee to participate in a minimum of 12 hours of training.
Basic certification will require each trainee to participate in a minimum of 12 hours of training.
Continuous CEW training will occur every two years.
Continuous CEW training will occur every two years.
Sworn personnel are prohibited from teaching non-law enforcement citizens in the use of CEWs without authorization.
Sworn personnel are prohibited from teaching non-law enforcement citizens in the use of CEWs without authorization.
A verbal warning is not required prior to deployment of the LLIM.
A verbal warning is not required prior to deployment of the LLIM.
OC LLIM does not contaminate others.
OC LLIM does not contaminate others.
Subjects exposed to OC should be kept in a confined area to expedite the recovery period.
Subjects exposed to OC should be kept in a confined area to expedite the recovery period.
Booking personnel are required to seize the clothing of all subjects who have had an OC LLIM used on them.
Booking personnel are required to seize the clothing of all subjects who have had an OC LLIM used on them.
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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.
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