[Amended 12-18-1986]
A.
Findings.
(1)
We live in a complex society, and police officers are daily
confronted with situations where control must be exercised to effect
arrests and to protect public safety.
(2)
Control may be achieved through advice, warnings, persuasion
or, in extreme situations, by physical force.
(3)
If physical force is used when not required or is unreasonable
in degree, it is usually construed as brutality and is considered
to be the ultimate in discourtesy, misconduct and abuse of authority.
B.
Authorization to use force.
(1)
Physical force may be used when the exercise of persuasion,
advice and/or warning is found to be insufficient to obtain cooperation
and control. Such physical force, if used, shall be the minimum force
necessary for the particular occasion and shall be reasonable in degree
to the extent that it is necessary to effect cooperation and control
of a particular incident.
(3)
The amount of force used or the method employed to secure compliance
with the law or to make an arrest is governed by the situation, and
similar circumstances will require similar response for all groups
or individuals. An officer must remain alert, however, in those situations
where language or cultural differences might be mistaken for resistance
to enforcement of the law.
The following methods shall be used in accomplishing use of
force.
A.
Articulate; try to communicate with the person or persons.
B.
Physical strength and skill in self defense.
C.
Mace, gas or noxious substances.
(1)
Nonlethal chemical mace (tear gas) may be carried by full-time
police officers trained in the use of the same.
(3)
Nonlethal chemical mace may not be used on animals or intoxicated
persons.
(4)
When mace is used, the subject's face will be flushed with
cold water and he will be examined by a physician. The officer will
make out a full report to the Chief of Police as to the use of the
mace and circumstances that involved its use and report on the condition
of the subject after the physical examination.
D.
Nightstick, baton, blackjack, sap or Moondocker PR-211.
(1)
The aforementioned instruments are to be considered dangerous
when not used properly. Therefore, training in the use of the same
is extremely important and will be continually updated.
(2)
These instruments should be utilized on the sensitive areas
of the body (i.e. ankles, knees, shins, hands, wrists, elbows). At
no time will a subject be struck above the shoulders.
(3)
When this type of force is used, a written report surrounding
the circumstances will be made to the Chief of Police. This person
will also be examined by a physician and his condition noted.
(4)
The above instruments should be used only when less violent
methods of apprehension have failed and an arrest must be effected.
It should be used only for self-defense and/or the defense of others.
E.
Stun-gun.
(1)
A stun-gun may be used only as a last resort; all other methods
having been exhausted. Training is essential and will be maintained
monthly.
(2)
A stun-gun may be used on a mentally disturbed person and one
that is extremely violent. Extreme caution should be used and rules
governing the same adhered to. Make sure the subject does not strike
his head when falling from the application of a stun-gun.
(3)
When a stun-gun is used, a full report must be made to the Chief
of Police and follow-up physical exam results noted.
