If the subject cannot be calmed and verbal de-escalation is unsuccessful , the decision to capture the subject will be made by a supervisor or other LEO on scene . If EMS personnel are on scene , they should be notified as feasible , so that after capture , control , and restraint is secured , they can provide appropriate medical attention . LEOs should base their decision to use force options on the active resistance and behaviors of the subject .
The objective is rapid control and restraint of the subject in order to minimize a prolonged struggle and exertion , whereby mitigating the risk of sudden death . The application of the Conducted Energy Weapon should be considered when confronting an active resisting and combative subject as opposed to using empty-hand control techniques as it can shorten the confrontation time span and reduces the propensity for subject and LEO injury .
Multiple officers should prone the subject to the ground by controlling the limbs of the subject , quickly restrain the subject ’ s hands behind his back ( using 2 or 3 sets depending on the size of the person ), and hobble the subject ’ s ankles as warranted . 21-27
Once the subject ceases resistance LEOs should cease their use of force . An LEO should monitor the subject ’ s face and check for breathing and vital signs , check for signs of functional consciousness , check for apparent injuries , and remove items from the neck of the subject . 7
An LEO should initiate lifesaving measures until relieved by EMS if the subject becomes unresponsive . The subject should be transported to a medical facility by EMS . All involved LEOs should submit a written report documenting their observations and of force measures applied .
Training Field research has shown that LEOs trained in recognizing symptoms associated with ExDS can prepare them to respond to a combative subject and training focused on these symptoms should be provided . 10-12
LEOs should complete training which focuses on their response to the mentally ill , subjects whose behaviors align with being under the influence of a chemical substance , and subjects who may be emotionally disturbed . By practice , training should be provided which brings LEOs , dispatchers , supervisors , emergency medical and mental health personnel , and investigators together to focuses on the tasks of each position to provide a collaborative and coordinated response , when feasible , when LEOs confront a subject exhibiting symptom of ExDS . LEOs should receive training in the agency ’ s Response to Resistance policy and the accompanying protocols on an ongoing basis .
Administrators should send LEOs and supervisors to obtain and maintain instructor certifications in subject control tactics , force equipment , and associated topics relevant to the subject . Training which matches policy and the protocols , and integrates the use of force options including restraints based on the changing dynamics of the circumstance and resistance of the subject and the application of a multi-LEO team takedown procedure should be practiced on a regular basis . 2 , 20
Training on using CIT or equivalent intervention techniques , force options and tactics , prone restraint procedures , First Aid , CPR , agonal breathing , and use of the Automated External Defibrillator should be integrated into scenario-based training drills to ensure linkages between concepts and skills are learned . 2 10-12 ,
28-31
The training should emphasize that capture , control , and restraint of a combative subject should be applied quickly to minimize the subject ’ s exertional activity so that once the person is controlled and restrained , EMS personnel may provide appropriate medical attention . All training provided should be documented .
Guiding an LEO ’ s decision in using varying force measures , as described in the agency ’ s Response to Resistance policy , ensures administrators comply with the United States Supreme Court ’ s decision in Monell v . Department of Social Services , City of NY , 436 U . S . 658 ( 1978 ) by directing them in the performance of their duties through implementing constitutional policies . 32
SUMMER . 2021 41