1035.00, Ballistic Shields
Refer:
- Directive 1200.00, Inspections, Maintenance, Responsibility and Authority
- Directive 1500.00, Training
Definitions:
- Ballistic Shield: A portable device capable of at least National Institute of Justice (NIJ) Level IIIA ballistic protection.
- Shield Element: The formation of members configured to safely deploy the ballistic shield. The number of members in the shield element will be based on the mission to be accomplished through the use of the shield.
Policy:
- A ballistic shield is a defensive tool designed to provide Police Bureau members with protection during custody incidents, rescue efforts, searching, or when rendering aid.
Procedure:
- Issuance and Inspection:
1.1. The Police Bureau will issue ballistic shields to Responsibility Units for specific tactical purposes. Responsibility Unit Managers shall ensure the availability, security, inspection, and maintenance of ballistic shields assigned to their respective Responsibility Unit in accordance with Directive 1200.00, Inspections, Maintenance, Responsibility and Authority.
2. Modifications:
2.1. Only manufacture-specific accessories may be added to a ballistic shield after permission to modify has been granted by the Training Division Manager, or designee, in writing.
3. Training:
3.1. Ongoing training regarding ballistic shields will be coordinated by the Training Division, in accordance with Directive 1500.00, Training.
4. Carrying Requirements:
4.1. Ballistic shields will be stored within supervisor vehicles for deployment upon a member’s request or a supervisor’s order.
5. Use:
5.1. The ballistic shield is not a tactic, but a piece of equipment that may be used to support and enhance trained patrol tactics. Prior to deploying a ballistic shield, members should consider the following factors:
5.1.1. Threat Assessment: Information about the subject’s capabilities includes, but is not limited to access to weapons, type and capability of weapons, subject’s prior actions, and subject’s ongoing behavior.
5.1.2. Environment: The physical and operational environment affecting the approach and custody including, but not limited to obstacles, available cover, and potential secondary threats.
5.1.3. Time, tactics, and resources: The capabilities of police and needs in composing a team includes, but is not limited to specific equipment (e.g. electronic control weapon, less lethal weapons, canines), members to cover threats, Special Emergency Reaction Team (SERT) consultation.
5.2. The ballistic shield is to be used (e.g. with shield element) to provide additional ballistic protection for approaching a downed, potentially armed subject; for the rescue of a downed individual (e.g. member, victim, witness, etc.), or for clearing of large outdoor open areas, or for the clearing of vehicles.
5.3. The ballistic shield may also be used to provide a fixed defensive position for members to use as cover. These situations may include the use of the ballistic shield over a car door or on a stationary perimeter position or to provide protection for members covering hallways or large open areas within a structure.
5.4. Absent exigent circumstances, the ballistic shield will not be used for the searching of structures.
6. Supervisor Responsibilities:
6.1. Supervisors will ensure the ballistic shield is properly assembled or otherwise ready for deployment.
6.2. Supervisors will ensure deployment of the ballistic shield is appropriate or if alternative options exist up to and including Special Emergency Reaction Team (SERT) consultation.
6.3. Supervisors who utilize a ballistic shield or shield element formation must notify the Training Division of deployment; appropriate details may be relayed via email.
History:
- Originating Directive Effective: 08/10/10
- First Revision Effective: 01/20/16
- Next Review Date: 01/20/18
- Review By: Training Division