Use of Baton

NOTICE: This is a policy proposal and is still in the drafting stage.

Purpose

The purpose of this policy is to establish guidelines for the use of batons by employees of Tech Stop. The policy is designed to ensure that employees use batons only when necessary and that they use them in a safe and effective manner.

Policy

Employees may only use batons in the following situations:

• To effect a lawful arrest or detention
• To overcome resistance or prevent escape
• To prevent the commission of a public offense
• To defend others or in self-defense
• To gain compliance with a lawful order

Employees shall avoid use of batons against:

• Pregnant women
• Persons who are obviously under the influence of drugs or alcohol
• Persons who are handcuffed or otherwise restrained
• Persons who are in a prone position
• Persons who are known to have a serious medical condition that could be aggravated by the use of a baton

Employees shall use the minimum amount of force necessary to achieve the desired outcome. Employees shall avoid striking sensitive areas of the body, such as the head, neck, or groin. Employees shall cease using the baton as soon as the person is subdued or the threat is eliminated.

Training

Employees shall receive biannual training on the use of batons. The training shall cover the following topics:

• The legal standards for the use of batons
• The different types of batons
• The techniques for using batons safely and effectively
• The procedures for reporting incidents involving the use of batons
• The physiological effects of baton strikes
• The signs and symptoms of baton misuse

Reporting Requirements

Employees shall report all incidents involving the use of batons to their supervisor as soon as possible. The supervisor shall investigate the incident and determine whether the use of a baton was justified. If the use of a baton was not justified, the supervisor shall take appropriate disciplinary action.

Documentation

Employees shall document all incidents involving the use of batons. The documentation shall include:

• The date, time, and location of the incident
• The name of the employee involved
• The name of the person against whom a baton was used
• A description of the incident
• The type of baton used
• The reason for using the baton
• The location and number of baton strikes
• The outcome of the incident
• Any injuries sustained as a result of the baton strikes

Review

This policy shall be reviewed annually to ensure that it is consistent with applicable law and to reflect any changes in law or practice.

Conclusion

This policy is intended to provide employees with clear guidelines for the use of batons. Employees who violate this policy may be subject to disciplinary action, up to and including termination of employment.