Westshore Enforcement Bureau
SWAT
Operations Manual
Updated April 2, 2007
1
TABLE OF CONTENTS Statement of Purpose Administrative Structure Member Departments Table of Organization Call Out Procedure Physical Fitness Standards WEB SWAT Fitness Standard Firearms Standards Sniper/Observer, Criteria & Standards Guidelines for Search and Arrest Warrants Hostage Situation Barricaded Subject Situation Standard Operating Guidelines for Building Searches Perimeter Deployment Plan VIP Security Special Events Special Operations Functions Filling of Specialized Positions Within WEB SWAT Equipment Team Training Disciplinary Procedures Administrative Procedures Use of Force Use of Force Report Form NFDD (Noise/Flash Diversionary Devices) Chemical Munitions Shock Lock Breaching Armored Vehicle Rescue Canine Unit Medic Unit Chaplain Unit Rules & Regulations County Prosecutors' Office Contacts
2
3 4 7 8 12 13 14 15 16 18 19 22 25 27 32 33 34 36 37 38 44 45 46 51 54 56 58 61 62 63 73 76 79
Statement of Purpose The role of law enforcement in all cases, including riotous activity, insurrection, barricaded subjects, execution of narcotics warrants, arrest of dangerous felons and the rescue of hostages or endangered persons, is the protection of lives and property. Westshore Enforcement Bureau SWAT is a team of specially trained police officers from participating political subdivisions, which will respond to any incident where special weapons and tactics are needed within the member jurisdictions. The unit consists of highly trained personnel with specific skills in the areas of marksmanship, tactical response and containment, deployment of chemical munitions and hostage negotiations. Westshore Enforcement Bureau SWAT is under the direct supervision of a unit Commander and Assistant Commanders with governing authority derived through the Westshore Enforcement Bureau Council of Governments. The purpose and intent of Westshore Enforcement Bureau SWAT is to serve as a specialized, flexible and mobile unit, activated to assist member departments in the containment, de-escalation and ultimate control of all situations beyond the capabilities of today's police officer.
3
Administrative Structure
Westshore Council of Governments
Westshore Chiefs of Police
Task Force Commander
SWAT
Mobile Field Force (Crowd Control Unit)
4
Barricade Westshore Chiefs of Police
SWAT Commander
Assistant Commander
Marksman Observer Team Leader
Entry Team Leader
Perimeter Team Leader
Marksman Observer Teams
Entry Teams
Team Physician
Perimeter Teams
Canine Teams
Breaching Teams
Tactical Medic
5
OIC of Negotiators
Negotiation Teams
Team Psychiatrist
Warrant Service Westshore Chiefs of Police
SWAT Commander
Assistant Commander
Perimeter Team Leader
Entry Team Leader
Entry Team
Entry Team
Perimeter Team
Breaching Teams
Tactical Medic
6
Canine Teams
MEMBER DEPARTMENTS
1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6.
Bay Village Fairview Park Lakewood North Olmsted Rocky River Westlake
7
Table of Organization
Bay Village Police Chief Dave Wright
Anthony Fuchs
Mike Bourque Team Leader
Brian Pelagalli
John Guzman
Fairview Park Police Chief Pat Nealon
Bruce Mihalak Team Leader
Tom McGuiggan (Military leave)
Ed Manion
8
Justin Brewer
Lakewood Police Chief
Tim Malley
Pat Fiorilli Unit Commander
Mike Fritsch Team Leader
Tom Tindira
Ted Morley
Pat Foye
Matt Wintrick
John Guzik
Dave Vet
North Olmsted Police Chief Wayne Wozniak
Bert Flynn Mobile Field Force Team Leader
Don Walling Team Leader
Bob Dungan Assistant Commander Marksman/Observer T/L
Pat Scullin
Paul Miller
Mark Goodwin
9
Rocky River Police Chief Don Wagner
Kelly Stillman Team Leader
Chad Dennison
Ron Flowers
Nick Rusinko
Greg King
Westlake Police Chief Richard Walling
Brian Pasti Assistant Commander
Kevin Bielozer Team Leader
Josh Frey
Chuck Kalo
Tim O’Neill
10
Marcel Sorgi
Tactical Paramedics
Dan Coyle Team Leader (NOFD)
Adam Hudac (NOFD)
Keith Swanson (BVFD)
11
David Stump (BVFD)
Call Out Procedure It is the philosophy of Westshore Enforcement Bureau SWAT that any member department facing a crisis or planned operation that requires additional manpower and/or equipment may employ the use of the team at any time. If Westshore Enforcement Bureau SWAT is desired, the highest-ranking officer on scene will place the request. Contact will then be made with the SWAT OIC/Commander Patrick Fiorilli of the Lakewood Police Department at cellular telephone 216-701-6171, home (216) 383-1254 or pager 216-690-0168. If for any reason contact with SWAT OIC/Commander Fiorilli could not be made, the request should be made with Lakewood Police Department at 216-521-6773. Assistant Commander Notification procedures will be posted at Lakewood Police Department dispatch by the SWAT OIC/Commander. This service is available 24 hours a day. Once the request for the Westshore Enforcement Bureau SWAT is received, the appropriate number of SWAT Officers will be determined by the Westshore Enforcement Bureau SWAT OIC/Commander or designee dependent on the specific type of incident. Every effort will be made to utilize on-duty personnel first, and then off duty personnel will be notified. The Westshore Enforcement Bureau SWAT OIC/Commander or designee will contact each of the member departments OIC and make the appropriate manpower request. The member department OIC will contact the individual SWAT officer to respond accordingly. Once the notification is completed, team members will respond to the requesting agency's department building or other designated location. It is the individual member’s responsibility to notify Westshore Enforcement Bureau SWAT OIC/Commander or designee of any planned absence from availability. This includes, but is not limited to the following: vacation, injury, and prolonged illness, work schedule, etc. If the unit is needed for a planned operation, contact should be made through the team commander. See Special Operations Functions section.
12
Physical Fitness Standards Due to the physical demands a tactical officer may face during the course of his duties, specific criteria should be established to evaluate his/her ability to function in that capacity. By the very nature of his/her appointment to a tactical unit, the responsibility exists for the officer to respond to and control the most volatile of police response situations. This then places an ethical and legal responsibility on the part of unit administrators to insure the capability of each officer selected. The two mile run, push ups and sit up testing standards were found to be deficient for the physical fitness challenges a tactical team will face. As of January 2004, Westshore Enforcement Bureau SWAT adjusted fitness requirements for team membership. The Cleveland Police Department Outdoor range obstacle course has been selected as the minimum testing standard for the Westshore Enforcement Bureau S.W.A.T. Tactical Operator. The minimum qualification standards will be timed at 7:30 (seven minutes and thirty seconds) Minimum standards for all fitness testing will take place every six months. All other standards will be evaluated during both testing phases. All fitness testing will be conducted in standard BDU uniform and boots.
This standard does not apply to illness or injury cases, which will be dealt with on an individual basis. Negotiators, medics and canine handlers are exempt from all fitness standards and requirements.
13
WEB SWAT Physical Fitness Standard CPD Obstacle Course •
All obstacles must be completed or attempted to completion at least two times prior to proceeding to the next obstacle.
1. Start. a. b. c. d. e. f. g. h. i. j. k. l. m. n. o. p. q. r. s. t. u. v. • •
2.
Time starts. Run up grass hill behind shoot house. Run down driveway to first obstacle (monkey bar) Monkey bars. ALL rungs must be touched, starting with first and end with last. Tires. Every tire must be negotiated. Ten foot wall. Using rope, climb to top and touch to top. Climb down using rope. Six foot wall. Climb over wall, landing on opposite side. Run to asphalt driveway. Run to next obstacle (balance beams) Balance beams. Negotiate all balance beams, starting with first, ending with last. Proceed to next obstacle (five foot wall) Climb over the top of the five foot wall Proceed to next obstacle (four foot wall) Climb over the top of the four foot wall Proceed to next obstacle (three foot wall) Crawl under the three foot wall Proceed to next obstacle (Rope Swing) Negotiate Rope Swing. Swing across imaginary mote. Proceed to next obstacle (A-Frame) Climb to the top of the A-Frame and down other side using the attached ropes. Run to firing range Complete pre-arranged course of fire. Run to the finish line. Run the gravel driveway to the asphalt, run asphalt to the rear of the shoot house to the start/finish line. Time stops Maximum time allowed- 7:30 (seven minutes, thirty seconds) Course of fire will be announced prior to the start of the physical fitness testing. Fire arms testing will include engaging precision targets of clay pigeons, 6” circular steel or bowling pin sized targets from various shooting positions to include standing, kneeling and prone. The use of barricades will be included in the physical fitness firearms testing. Guidelines. a. All live fire will be conducted wearing hearing and eye protection. b. Inability to complete any obstacle after two unsuccessful attempts will equal a fifteen second (0.15) addition to the final time. c. Any round fired onto any section of the target outside of the positive scoring areas on the live fire section will equal a twenty second (0.20) addition to the final time.
3. Qualification a. Failure to complete the obstacle course within the time constraints will disqualify the team member from warrant service activation as an entry team participant. b. Disqualified team member(s) are limited to warrant service vehicle driver and limited duties at a warrant service activation as assigned by the Unit Commander or Team Leader. c. Failure to complete the obstacle course within the time constraints will disqualify the team member from all other SWAT activations as an entry team participant. 14
d. Disqualified team member(s) are limited to vehicle driver and limited duties at the command post as assigned by the Unit Commander or Team Leader. 4. Re-Qualification a. Any disqualified team member can re-take the obstacle course at any time. b. Successful score of 7:30 or less will qualify the team member to full duty.
Firearms Standards Law Enforcement personnel that accept the responsibility of membership in tactical operations must also submit to a higher level of firearms capability. Given the propensity of lethal encounters in tactical operations, team members must be held to a higher standard than those posed by state mandates or departmental firearms courses. To this, Westshore Enforcement Bureau SWAT has developed a tactical firearm’s course (i.e. Timed Stress Course) that will evaluate the tactical officer in the following areas: • • • • • • • •
Accuracy Multiple shot capability Failure recovery Tactical reloading Tactical safety Tactical movement Timed stress course Decision making
The Timed Stress Course will be prepared by the designated Westshore Enforcement Bureau SWAT range master and approved by the Unit Commander. The Timed Stress Course will be administered bi-annually during the spring or fall three day SWAT practice. If a team member fails to pass the specified course of fire on two (2) consecutive firearms training sessions, that member can be discharged from Westshore Enforcement Bureau SWAT. It is the philosophy of Westshore Enforcement Bureau SWAT that tactical members may be called upon at any moment to perform at the highest possible level of firearms proficiency. The safety of citizens and fellow team members mandate that tactical officers maintain a consistent level of capability that supersedes that of the average street officer. Team members that exhibit hot and cold levels of ability will not be considered consistent in performance. Protection from costly errors and subsequent liability rests in our ability to set reasonable standards of performance and uniformly enforce those standards. The specific criteria for the Westshore Enforcement Bureau SWAT Timed Stress Course of fire will be maintained on file with the Westshore Enforcement Bureau SWAT Command Personnel or Firearm’s Staff. The tactical members of Westshore Enforcement Bureau SWAT will be authorized to carry and load ammunition that is approved by the individual member departments command staff only. No other ammunition is permitted in tactical operations unless authorized by the Westshore Enforcement Bureau SWAT Command Staff.
Marksman / Observer, Criteria & Standards The Marksman / Observer position represents a critical and sensitive assignment in Westshore Enforcement Bureau SWAT. The Precision riflemen must have a working knowledge of all aspects of the SWAT mission in addition to being skilled in field craft, observation and intelligence gathering and capable of 15
delivering precision fire on selected targets from extended range. The Marksman / Observer is a voluntary position that is filled from the ranks of the team’s operators. Selection is done upon receipt of a “Letter of Interest” to fill a vacancy or add a position to the Marksman / Observer Team. The Command Staff, Marksman / Observer Team Leader and active team Marksman / Observer will then evaluate the applicant. The Marksman / Observer Team Leader will oversee the sniper’s team training, data books, qualification records and Sniper/Observer evaluations. Operators selected for this position will receive advanced training that includes: • • • • • • • •
Marksmanship principles Cold bore shots, internal and external ballistics Position shooting, exertion drills, moving and pop-up targets Shooting through glass and barriers Low light and night fire exercises using night vision equipment Range estimation and target engagement from 25 - 500 yards Observation and scenario training Rifle maintenance
Marksman / Observer will be required to maintain an issued or individual department owned sniper grade weapon capable of delivering 1 minute of accuracy at 100 yards. Westshore Enforcement Bureau SWAT Marksman / Observer will be issued match grade and tactical barrier penetration rounds. The following is description of the authorized ammunition for Westshore Enforcement Bureau SWAT Marksman / Observer: 1. 308 cal. 2. 308 cal.
Federal Gold Match Federal Tactical Load
168 Grain BTHP 165 Grain
Prior to being utilized in the capacity of Marksman / Observer, the officer must successfully complete at least one basic approved SWAT Sniper school. Additionally, each Marksman / Observer is required to meet the following standards: • • • •
Attend scheduled Westshore Enforcement Bureau SWAT training sessions. These training sessions are normally scheduled monthly; however, additional training dates may be added to enhance the riflemen’s ability. Successfully complete the State of Ohio Scoped Rifle Qualification Course annually Successfully fire the Westshore Enforcement Bureau SWAT Monthly Qualification Course and submit their targets to the designated Team Leader or Command Personnel Participate in the advanced training, which will be conducted annually
Additional training will be scheduled and are mandated for all Marksman / Observer. Outside training that conflicts with scheduled training, must be cleared with the Marksman / Observer Team Leader or his designee. The Marksman / Observer Team Leader will maintain all records pertaining to the sniper team and will oversee any necessary updates. Due to the technical and demanding nature of the Marksman / Observer assignment, Westshore Enforcement Bureau SWAT operators in this unit will be sent to advance training to upgrade their skills whenever possible.
16
The position of Marksman / Observer carries with it added responsibility and demand on your time. Due to the critical nature of this assignment, Marksman / Observer are provided with advanced training and are expected to meet a higher level of professional excellence. Procedures governing the submission of required monthly targets are hereby set forth as follows: 1. Monthly qualification targets will be submitted to the designated Team Leader or Command Personnel. 2. Failure to submit the targets on time will result in the following action. a. Suspension form sniper related duties on actual callouts for a period of 30 days. b. Letter to the officer's Chief indicating the described action. 3. Second offense to submit targets on time will result in a suspension from sniper related duties for a period of 60 days with a letter to the officer's Chief. 4. Third offense will result in removal from the Precision Riflemen assignment. 5. Failure to submit targets due to Marksman / Observer absence from training due to illness/injury, court or other work related function will be considered by Team Leader or Command Personnel.
During tactical operations, Marksman / Observer units will be designated as “Sierra” teams. The Marksman / Observer Team Leader will assign call signs to each team in accordance with the area in which they are deployed and relay that information to the Command Post. When possible, Marksman / Observer will deploy in two-man teams and maintain their positions until completion of the operation or when relieved.
17
Guideline for Search and Arrest Warrants The guidelines that follow are intended to assist investigative personnel in requesting Westshore Enforcement Bureau SWAT assistance. Utilization of tactical personnel will provide a well-trained, physically superior and better-equipped approach to effecting search and arrest warrants. A request for service should have concurrence of the investigator's Chief of Police, and should be made as soon as possible. Every effort should be made to provide as much time for preparation as is practical. Remember, as the time for planning decreases, the risk factor increases. Requests for service can be made by contacting SWAT OIC/Commander Patrick Fiorilli of the Lakewood Police Department at cellular telephone 216-701-6171, home 216 383-1254 or pager 216-690-0168. If for any reason contact with SWAT OIC/Commander Fiorilli could not be made, the request should be made with Lakewood Police Department at 216-521-6773. Assistant Commander Notification procedure will be posted at Lakewood Police Department dispatch by the SWAT OIC/Commander. This service is available 24 hours a day. Prior to a request for service, investigators should evaluate the task at hand and determine if it meets one or more of the following criteria: • • • •
Barricaded or fortified location Armed or potentially armed suspects Suspects with a propensity for violence Any arrest/search warrant where increased manpower or special equipment requirements exist.
If criteria are met, investigators will complete a Threat Assessment for Warrant Service form. This will provide vital information on the type of service, location, suspects, weapons, etc. Investigators will contact, and/or meet with Westshore Enforcement Bureau SWAT Command Personnel as soon as possible to review the intelligence and determine if the use of Westshore Enforcement Bureau SWAT is applicable. The Threat Assessment for Warrant Service can be found on the World Wide Web at www.webswat.org. Westshore Enforcement Bureau SWAT has mandated a (3) hour maximum on warrant service staging. Given unusual circumstances and/or a high risk factor, Westshore Enforcement Bureau SWAT Command can override this directive. Once the operation is underway, investigators will not become involved in the tactical operation. Once the scene has been rendered secure, Westshore Enforcement Bureau SWAT Personnel will maintain site security until relieved. It is the desire of Westshore Enforcement Bureau SWAT personnel to provide the best possible service to our membership. If as an investigator, you have any questions regarding the use of the team, please contact any member of the Command Staff. We will do as much as possible to accommodate your needs.
18
Hostage Situations A. When an officer is confronted with a situation in which a potentially armed suspect, with or without a hostage, has seized or is believed to have seized control of a dwelling, structure, or place, immediate steps should be taken to insure the safety of hostages (actual or potential), bystanders, and responding officers. A person who has barricaded themselves against arrest, with or without hostages, presents an extraordinary danger to the officer who must arrest them and to innocent persons. B. Officers involved with a hostage situation will follow the procedures outlined for use in barricaded suspect situations. In addition, the following will be addressed: 1. Negotiable items/Non-negotiable items. a. If, during negotiations, the hostage-taker makes demands, these items will be considered negotiable. 1. Hostages 2. Cigarettes 3. Food, water 4. Time 5. Utilities 6. Prescribed drugs b. If, during negotiations, the hostage-taker makes demands, these items will be considered non-negotiable. 1. Police officer exchange for hostage 2. Weapon and ammunition 3. Drugs/alcohol 4. Other persons as exchange for hostage, i.e., family, friends, etc. c. The scene commander must approve all requested items. 2. Provisions for chase/surveillance vehicles a. The suspect should only be allowed to become mobile as a last resort and only to allow police to gain a tactical advantage. Permitting the suspect to move presents a danger to the general public and presents a difficult control problem. b. In the event the suspect is permitted to go mobile, provisions for chase and surveillance vehicles will be provided at every scene. c. The travel routes will be predetermined with the hostage-taker and approved by the scene commander to insure the safety of the general public and police personnel. 19
1. In the event the situation occurs near a neighboring jurisdiction, the dispatcher will notify the police agency of the situation. The dispatcher will then monitor communications with the other agencies. C. Hostage Rescue Policy 1. Whenever possible, reasonable efforts will be made to resolve hostage incidents peacefully and affect the safe release of the hostage(s) and apprehension of the suspect. 2. Often during hostage situations, suspect(s) have either injured or killed hostages, or threatened to do so. Given the dynamics of a hostage situation, Command Personnel cannot fail to respond in the hope that threatened acts won't be carried out. 3. To effectively manage hostage situations, Command Personnel must establish certain priorities concerning human life if hostage rescue capability is to exist. Westshore Enforcement Bureau SWAT philosophy shall dictate the priority of life as follows: a. Lives of hostages and lives of innocent persons in the area b. Lives of police/rescue personnel c. Lives of suspects/criminals 4. These priorities are not meant to infer that the life of a suspect is unimportant. It does establish that the lives of hostages and innocent persons will not be put at risk to avoid a deadly force resolution. 5. Based upon defined priorities of life and the on-going threat to hostages, citizens, and law enforcement personnel, it may become necessary for tactical personnel to resolve the incident through the use of lethal force. 6. Due to the ever-changing characteristics of a hostage incident, the window of opportunity for this method of resolution to take place may only exist for a matter of seconds. If the policy and procedures are not in place for action to be immediately taken, and the opportunity is lost, it may not re-occur. In this case failure to take decisive action may cost the life of a hostage. 7. Tactical experts nationwide, as well as the International Chiefs of Police Association and the National Tactical Officers Association, have long supported what has been described as the "open air option." Once specific criteria are met, any team member with the opportunity and capability to resolve the situation with lethal force may, in fact, utilize that option.
20
Specific criteria: a. Does the suspect have a hostage? b. Does the suspect indicate or state he will kill the hostage(s)? c. Can it be reasonably verified the suspect is armed or has the potential for killing hostages? If the above criteria are met, Westshore Enforcement Bureau SWAT Command Personnel can then issue the “Delta Order” (upon OIC approval). The Delta Order advises all personnel the open-air option is in effect and they are not required to obtain additional command authorization to utilize lethal force to resolve the incident. If this situation occurs, officer's actions are not to be considered a violation of progressive use of force policy.
21
Barricaded Subject Situations I.
Initial Responding Officer's Responsibility A. When an officer is confronted with a situation in which a potentially armed suspect has seized or is believed to have seized control of a dwelling, structure or place, immediate steps should be taken to insure the safety of bystanders and responding officers. A person who has barricaded him or herself against arrest presents an extraordinary danger to the officers who must arrest them and to innocent people. 1. Officers confronted with such a situation must cease immediately to function as individuals and perform as members of an organized and coordinated team. 2. The objective of all officers will be to neutralize any barricaded suspect situation while minimizing dangers to all persons involved. B. Primary responsibility of the first officers on the scene is to establish an inner perimeter to cut off escape routes and prevent others from entering the area. 1. Additional responding officers should be directed to assume positions on the outer perimeter. 2. As soon as possible, an attempt must be made to evacuate innocent persons and bystanders in the line of fire and isolate witnesses. Personnel are reminded that all reasonable attempts should be made to identify all bystanders being evacuated in case the perpetrator(s) attempt to pretend to be a bystander in an effort to escape. C. Unnecessary aggression is not authorized. An officer may take action to save a life or contain the situation in accordance with the Westshore Enforcement Bureau SWAT Response to Resistance/Aggression Policy. D. The shift commander on duty will be notified as soon as possible and will assume responsibility for the scene upon arrival. E. Should Westshore Enforcement Bureau SWAT personnel be confronted with a suspect who attempts to escape or break outside of the containment perimeter, reasonable force will be used to prevent escape. To ensure the public safety, suspects must be prevented from going mobile. The Westshore Enforcement Bureau SWAT Response to Resistance/Aggression Policy will guide the actions of Westshore Enforcement Bureau SWAT personnel.
II.
Control of Scene A. The shift commander will establish a command post in the outer perimeter area, but no closer than the area defined as the outer perimeter. When it is determined the situation cannot be resolved promptly and there is a likelihood of danger or injury to the police or general public, an order for a Westshore Enforcement Bureau SWAT call-up will be issued. 1. Westshore Enforcement Bureau SWAT base operations will notify all members by pager and/or telephone. 2. Westshore Enforcement Bureau SWAT members not responding to the activation will notify Westshore Enforcement Bureau SWAT base operations. Westshore Enforcement 22
Bureau SWAT base operations will then page Westshore Enforcement Bureau SWAT Command Personnel of those members not responding. 3. Westshore Enforcement Bureau SWAT base operations is the Lakewood Police Department at 216-521-6773. Westlake Police Department is secondary at 440-8713311. B. In the event of a Westshore Enforcement Bureau SWAT call-out, the shift commander or his designate will contact the Chief of Police and apprise him/her of the situation. 1. Scene Commander - is defined as the highest-ranking officer (either shift commander or O.I.C.) present at the incident, which has prompted the call out of the Westshore Enforcement Bureau SWAT team. 2. Westshore Enforcement Bureau SWAT Commander - the designated commander or assistant commander of the Westshore Enforcement Bureau SWAT team on the scene of an incident. NOTE: The scene commander has the overall authority and responsibility. C. The Westshore Enforcement Bureau SWAT Commander will proceed to the scene and take charge of Westshore Enforcement Bureau SWAT personnel. Westshore Enforcement Bureau SWAT personnel shall carry out all reasonable requests made by the scene commander. 1. If no contact can be made with the Westshore Enforcement Bureau SWAT Commander, any Assistant Westshore Enforcement Bureau SWAT Commander will remain in command and act as the SWAT Commander. If no team commanders are available, the most senior Team Leader or team member will take charge of the incident. 2. Once the Westshore Enforcement Bureau SWAT Commander has assumed command of the inner perimeter, the shift commander shall remain at the scene, but may re-focus his attention to his duties as overall shift commander for the entire city, or as needed, but shall remain in command overall. D. The fire department and EMS should be notified so they are ready to respond if needed. In the event injuries have already been sustained, evacuation of the injured should be made immediately in a safe manner as soon as it can safely be arranged. If EMS personnel can safely remove any injured from the inner perimeter they should do so. If, however, the risk factors are too great, the scene commander and Westshore Enforcement Bureau SWAT Commander shall decide the best course of action for removal of any injured with the safety of personnel considered. III.
Westshore Enforcement Bureau SWAT Responsibility A. The tactical members are responsible for the security of the inner perimeter. The team leader, as designated by the Westshore Enforcement Bureau SWAT Commander, is responsible for directing and coordinating the tactical team. B. The negotiators will attempt to communicate with the suspect and will keep the Scene Commander/ Westshore Enforcement Bureau SWAT Commander advised of any developments. The negotiators will attempt to obtain the release of hostages without injury and the surrender of the suspect. 23
C. All officers involved in the situation on both the inner and outer perimeters will remain under the direction of a Westshore Enforcement Bureau SWAT Commander until the situation is resolved. D. If it is determined by the scene commander that all attempts to obtain a negotiated release or surrender have failed and aggressive action is warranted, the tactical unit members will be given responsibility for resolving the situation. Chemical agents and or diversionary devices may be utilized at the discretion of the Westshore Enforcement Bureau SWAT Commander. IV.
Public Information and Media Control A. Any news release or media contact shall be at the sole discretion of the OIC of the requesting agency unless otherwise directed.
V.
Criminal Investigation Responsibilities A. Criminal investigations shall be the sole responsibility of the requesting agency and not any member of Westshore Enforcement Bureau SWAT.
24
Standard Operating Guidelines for Building Searches I. Westshore Enforcement Bureau SWAT recognizes that all building search missions vary depending on the circumstances, types of structures and threat level of the suspect(s). These Operating Guidelines may vary depending on the specific mission that the Westshore Enforcement Bureau SWAT Team is attempting to accomplish. The ultimate goal in all of these missions is to safely and thoroughly search the building, locating any persons in hiding, neutralizing any threats to the Westshore Enforcement Bureau SWAT Team or others, and protecting any items of evidentiary value.
II. Upon arrival, Inner Perimeter Personnel and Sniper/Observer Teams will be deployed to contain and isolate the suspect(s) to the building. These officers shall not clear from their positions until after the Search Team has cleared the entire structure and given the “all clear” to the Incident Commander. The Containment Officers shall clear only after the Westshore Enforcement Bureau SWAT Incident Commander authorizes same. A. The Search Team will be designated and should consist of the following elements: • Three (3) man Scout Element 1. Scout: does all searching/clearing for the Unit. 2. Scout Cover: works directly with Scout and provides the tactical cover for him. 3. Scout Support: provides cover for Scout and Scout Cover and is a third searcher, when needed • Leadership/Security Element 1. Team Leader: Directs and controls all support personnel on the Search Team. Maintains communications with Scout and Command Post and does not have a specific tactical assignment within the Search Team other than a leadership role. 2. Point Man: Maintains front security for Search Team. Works closely with Scout Element and ensures the Team does not pass an unsecured area. Should only focus on point security and not be concerned with any other Team assignments. 3. Rear Security; Maintains security for the Team’s rear. Usually directed by the Team Leader. 4. Support Element: The number of officers in this element varies depending upon the mission. These officers are available to be deployed by the Scout or the Team Leader during the course of the search. These officers may be called upon to simply assist a member of the Scout Element in searching a large room or may be called up with a specific tool that is needed. These members may be equipped with such items as ballistic shields, mirrors, chemical agents, less lethal weapons, breaching tools, etc.
25
B. The Search Team Leader will attempt to get as much information as is reasonable; based on the threat and timeliness of the mission, as to the building layout. The Search Team will then formulate a plan for the search of the structure. The plan should include entry location, tools to be carried (diversionary device, chemical agents, breaching tools, ballistic shields, etc.) as well as emergency contingencies.
C. Search Team Members check all equipment prior to arriving at the jump off point. When the Team is at the jump off point, the Team Leader will advise the command post via radio that he has control and is making entry. The Command Post shall acknowledge the Team Leader. The Team Leader passes up the squeeze and upon the receipt of a “thumbs-up” from the Point Man, advises the Team, “READY, READY, EXECUTE.” The Team then leaves the jump off point.
D. The Search Team makes entry into the structure at designated point, takes positions of cover and concealment inside, and, if within the scope of the mission, remains in place for a designated time period exercising noise and light discipline. After the designated time period, the Team begins the search. The Scout Element actively searches rooms and areas while the leadership/security and support elements maintain 360 degree security coverage for the Team. Only the Team Leader and Scout communicate the coordination of the search. All other Team Members remain focused on their specific assigned area of responsibility. The Scout Element performs a methodical and thorough search keeping officer safety and economy of force one of their key goals. Searching officers should make every attempt to clear as much of a room (or area) from an already secured area by using such techniques as quick peeks, cutting the pie, use of mirrors, or ballistic shields prior to entry. Moving Search Personnel should always be covered by stationary over- watching personnel. Whenever possible, Security and Support Element Personnel should stay “tucked in” behind cover while performing their assignments. If an officer is shot during the search, the nearest officer yells “OFFICER DOWN !”, covers the victim officer and lays down suppression fire, if necessary, while the next closest officer pulls the victim officer to safety.
E. The Scout Element will handle the apprehension/arrest of suspects. The Support Element Personnel will then take control of the suspect and transfer him to Containment Personnel. The Team continues to search until the remainder of the building is clear. When complete, the search Team Leader radios to the Command Post that the building is “ALL CLEAR”. At this time the Search Team exits the building. Note: Search Team Members may be assigned to protect items of evidentiary value, however, these Members should not touch or tamper with any evidence at the crime scene. The entire Westshore Enforcement Bureau SWAT Team will gather at a secure location and debrief the incident.
26
Westshore Enforcement Bureau SWAT Perimeter Deployment • • • • • • • •
Perimeter Units call sign designation will be “Perimeter” 1-4 The number denotes the side of the house in which the team is deployed Generally there will be two Officer’s per house side There will be a “primary” Officer, Lethal coverage There will be a “secondary” Officer, Less than Lethal coverage will be required to carry 37mm Sage SL-1or SL-6, Pepper Ball Launcher or the Taser X26 Secondary Officer may also be required to administer chemical munitions Side #1 refers to front of house, other sides are numbered in a clockwise fashion Perimeter Units should utilize proper cover & concealment
Perimeter #3 (Primary- Lethal) (Secondary- L/L)
Perimeter #2 (Primary- Lethal) (Secondary- L/L)
Perimeter #4 (Primary- Lethal) (Secondary-L/L)
Perimeter #1 (Primary-Lethal) (Secondary-L/L) P=Primary S=Secondary •
Other units which may be deployed inside the Tactical Perimeter are: o K-9 Units o Marksman/Observer Teams (Sierra) o Assault Units o Arrest Units o Evacuation Units o CNT Personnel o TEMS Personnel o SWAT Vehicles
27
Sierra 2-3 Side “10@50”” K-9-3
Perimeter 3-4 Side
Perimeter 1-2 Side
K-9-1 Sierra 1-4 Side “4@60” •
Assignment responsibilities o Side 1-2 is supported by K-9-1 o Side 3-4 is supported by K-9-3 o Sniper/Observer Teams will position themselves on the corners, being aware of crossfire o Do not immediately give up Perimeter position o Notify Command, order subject to the ground o Call for Designated Arrest Team o If suspect flees notify appropriate K-9 support Team o Do not give chase immediately o Do not compromise integrity of perimeter
IMPORTANT FACTS TO REMEMBER 28
• • • • • • •
•
Look over your front site when you are covering your side of the house. Be careful of your site picture and your backdrop. If you have an Officer or civilian in your designated cover area it may be easier for you to relocate than to move that particular individual. When on a corner of a house or building you may be exposing yourself to crossfire. Always try to center yourself in the middle of your designated perimeter area. In doing so you will avoid cover fire situations. Perimeter deployment/arrest teams will be utilized when insufficient numbers of Officers arrive at a call-up. If a subject steps from a building, that side designated perimeter team will give verbal commands. If there are Perimeter Teams on a corner of a house (ex: ½ side) this may cause conflict as to who gives verbal commands. Always be in talking distance of your partner. This will ensure that you know where your partner is located and you will always have lethal coverage. Give exact location as to where the Perimeter Team has set up on a given side of a house. In the case that you can only find cover and concealment on a corner of a house (ex: ½ side) this is crucial information that should be relayed to the appropriate Element Leader and T.O.C.. This information will help pin point your location and avoid crossfire concerns. In the event you can only set up on a corner of a house other teams may be relocated. If located on side 1 and closer to the left side. Ex: “Sound Off” P#1 Left side of House. P#1 Center of House, P#1 Right Side of House Side #3
Side #2
Side #4
Suspect Side #1
Corner Left
Center
Corner Right
Notice that when you take up a corner position you are starting to expose yourself to “friendly fire”, especially if the suspect steps from the building. • • • •
• • • •
Ideal Locations No crossfire considerations No verbal communication problems Less lethal & Lethal coverage Give exact location This may reveal deficiencies in the perimeter and resources can be deployed You will give Left, Center and Right as you are facing the building. You are on a corner of a building if you are exposed to more than one side.
L=Left C=Center R=Middle 29
CR=Corner
(2-3 Corner) CR
(3-4 Corner) R
C
L
L
CR
R
Side 3
C
Side 2
R
Target House
C
Side 4
L
Side 1
CR
Left
Center
(1-2 Corner)
Right
CR
(1-4 Corner)
K-9 UNITS
Sierra 30 3
S P PERIMETER 3
S P
SIDE #3
PERIMETER 4
Sierra 2
SIDE #2
Sierra 4 SIDE #4
P PERIMETER 2
SIDE #1
S
P PERIMETER 1
S
P-Primary S- Secondary
Sierra 1
VIP Security A. In the event a "Very Important Person" (VIP), defined as a dignitary, famous personality, 31
notorious person, or any other person in need of special security, the following provisions and considerations will be addressed. 1. The Westshore Enforcement Bureau SWAT Commander will be the supervisor and coordinator of any given security detail, unless otherwise designated by the Chief of Police of Jurisdiction. 2. If the event involves a government entity (i.e. Secret Service, FBI or US Marshals), the Team Commander or his designee will coordinate the dignitary protection with the InCharge Field Agent. In these types of events, the members of Westshore Enforcement Bureau SWAT will act as a support unit and be under the supervision of the agency incharge of the event. 3. Equipment assigned for Westshore Enforcement Bureau SWAT use, as outlined under Westshore Enforcement Bureau SWAT Equipment, will be utilized as well as the appropriate number of marked and unmarked vehicles. Soft body armor will be made available to the VIP if he/she desires. 4. Planning for travel routes with at least two alternate routes will be conducted to determine the safest and most expedient route. 5. Advanced on-site inspections will be conducted including aerial overview when available. One final inspection prior to arrival will be made of the immediate area the VIP is likely to occupy. 6. All intelligence gathering and coordinating will be assigned to the Intelligence Unit in the Criminal Investigations Sections (if available). B. Prior to the VIP's arrival, the commander of the detail will conduct a briefing. This briefing should be attended by all effected section commanders and by a representative from all outside agencies involved. (These agencies may include the Secret Service, FBI, any local or private law enforcement agencies, and the local fire department.) Duties and responsibilities of all agencies will be outlined. C. The fire department will be available for advanced life support and ambulance service. Any removal will be made to the nearest appropriate medical facility. D. All assigned officers will carry a portable radio and maintain communication with the dispatcher or a command post if one is established. E. If an officer’s assignment involves plainclothes, the coordinating agency may issue colorcoded identification pins. These pins will be conspicuously displayed on the lapel, front pocket, or collar. The Westshore Enforcement Bureau SWAT Commander or agent in charge will determine what color and designation will be worn.
32
Special Events A. Special events may be defined as an activity such as a parade, athletic contest, or public demonstration or celebration that results in the need for control of traffic, crowds, or crimes. B. The shift commander, unless otherwise designated by the Chief, will be the overall scene commander of any special event detail. The commander of the detail will determine what personnel are needed to effectively and efficiently oversee the event. C. The Intelligence Officer (if available) assigned to Criminal Investigations will provide any information concerning anticipated crime problems, other than those generally associated with large crowds. D. Logistical requirements should be addressed. These would include the number of barricades, barricade positioning, fixed post assignments, and any other relevant considerations that will assist in a smooth and effective operation. E. Since special events generally are planned events, the procedure of choice for using Westshore Enforcement Bureau SWAT, shall be via a memo or by telephone (See Special Operations Functions) F. The Westshore Enforcement Bureau SWAT Commander or his designee shall directly supervise all Westshore Enforcement Bureau SWAT personnel. However, the overall commander of the "special event" shall be vested with the designated OIC from the agency requesting assistance. G. All law enforcement Westshore Enforcement Bureau SWAT personnel (i.e. tactical operators, negotiators and medics holding law enforcement commissions) will be required to participate in the Special Event in a law enforcement capacity unless excused for special circumstances. H. All Westshore Enforcement Bureau SWAT medics will be required to participate in the event unless excused for special circumstances. I. Once an estimate of crowd size, traffic and crime problems are estimated, the special event commander and Westshore Enforcement Bureau SWAT Command Personnel shall decide on the area to receive the most critical coverage prior to, during and after the special event. J. If the logistics indicate there will be need of barricades or other relevant materials and/or considerations, it shall be the responsibility of the "special event" commander to handle those arrangements. K. Once the plan is developed on the special event, and the Westshore Enforcement Bureau SWAT Commanders agree on assignments and responsibilities, the requesting agency shall coordinate any necessary contacts both inside and outside of the agency.
33
Special Operations Functions A. Special operations functions are handled in two ways. The special operations that require immediate attention are coordinated by the shift commander of the responsible agency (or OIC). These types of operations generally include the following: 1. Special weapons and tactics team usage (Westshore Enforcement Bureau SWAT) 2. Hostage negotiations 3. Special purpose vehicle operations 4. Bomb threats 5. Disasters (Natural or Manmade) 6. Civil Disorders 7. Other approved emergencies B. Special operations that do not require an immediate response are delegated to the shift commander or OIC. The OIC may then assign the task to the appropriate officer for organization and coordination. These types of operations may include the following: 1. Coverage of special events such as fireworks, sporting events, parades. 2. Undercover surveillance/stakeouts 3. VIP protection 4. Warrant Service (high risk) a. Emergency Call-out 1. Follow standard emergency call-out as stipulated. b. Non-Emergency Call-out 1. Follow standard non-emergency call-out procedures as stipulated. C. Procedures for governing special operations are delineated in other sections of the operational procedures manual. 1. Special weapons and tactics team usage (Westshore Enforcement Bureau SWAT) a. Westshore Enforcement Bureau SWAT will handle the duties and responsibilities generally delegated to a SWAT team. b. Westshore Enforcement Bureau SWAT is not a full-time assignment, but rather a designated group of officers assembled when situations arise dictating specialized weapons and tactics used, such as (but not limited to:) hostage and barricaded subjects and or high-risk situations. c. Westshore Enforcement Bureau SWAT is composed of a tactical unit, medical unit and negotiators' unit and is under the direct supervision of the Westshore Enforcement Bureau SWAT Commander. 34
1. During a situation, the tactical unit is responsible for inner perimeter security under the direction of the team leader. 2. During hostage negotiations, the negotiations supervisor directs the negotiators. 3. During a tactical situation, Westshore Enforcement Bureau SWAT medics are under the direction of the medic supervisor (Lead Medic). All medication procedures and treatment will be established through the Medical Advisor (Team Physician) 4. Hostage negotiation is outlined in this order. Because the negotiator's unit is a part of Westshore Enforcement Bureau SWAT and closely interacts with tactical unit during situations, Westshore Enforcement Bureau SWAT will respond to any hostage situations. D. Deployment of Special Operations Officers (Westshore Enforcement Bureau SWAT) to Supplement Other Operational Components 1. Special Operations officers may be utilized at the discretion of the shift commander when normal patrol assignments cannot adequately handle an event or situation. 2. A memorandum will be generated requesting Westshore Enforcement Bureau SWAT officers to work special operations functions such as parades, sporting events, etc. (Request can be made via telephone/memo.) 3. Westshore Enforcement Bureau SWAT will generally be used in emergency situations, but may also participate in planned special events, such as VIP protection and warrant service. E. Cooperation and Coordination between Special Operations and Other Operational Components. 1. Once an operation is undertaken, it will be the responsibility of the Westshore Enforcement Bureau SWAT Commander to coordinate all functions and components of the operation and maintain cooperation between them. 2. All special operations officers and/or supervisors should attend roll calls (if applicable) with the beat officers assigned to the area of the operation to alleviate misunderstanding, provide safety of officers, and insure the success of the operation. However, discretion is advised in disseminating information to operational components in activities where disclosure may jeopardize a tactical operation.
35
Filling of Specialized Positions Within Westshore Enforcement Bureau SWAT A. Criteria for Filling Internal Vacancies 1. If a position is vacated within Westshore Enforcement Bureau SWAT (i.e. entry, precision riflemen, command), an announcement regarding the position will be made at the next monthly training or team gathering. 2. Team members will be given the specifics about the position and any requirements needed to fill the vacancy. 3. Any team member meeting the requirements can submit a “Letter of Intent” to the Westshore Enforcement Bureau SWAT Command Staff for consideration of the position. 4. The Westshore Enforcement Bureau SWAT Command Staff will review the submitted letters and determine the best candidate for the assignment. The following is criteria the Command Staff may use in determining eligibility: a. b. c. d. e. f.
Team Commitment Call-Out and Training Attendance Current Status as a Team Trainer Firearm Capabilities (Tactical Positions Only) Knowledge of Position Being Applied For Past Disciplinary Problems
5. The Westshore Enforcement Bureau SWAT Command Staff will make the final decisions on any vacancies.
36
Equipment A. When a participating agency assigns an individual to Westshore Enforcement Bureau SWAT, that agency is required to outfit their member with the following equipment. This equipment will include:
1. Raid Vest: Point Blank SPIDER Tactical Vest (Beast IIIA+) #F04ZR-4 equipped with removable ballistic collar, groin and biceps protection. Vest also comes with 5 (five) basic equipment pouches. 2. Armor Plate: Point Blank “Alpha” Hard Armor Plate (Level IV) *Vest and Armor Plate covered under the Ohio State Bid Pricing and BVP grant and through Vance’s Law Enforcement (614) 471-0712 3. Gas mask: Obtain from the “First Responder Kit” 4. Gas mask canisters: Obtain from the “First Responder Kit” 5. Gas mask carrier: Obtain from the “First Responder Kit” 6. Rain Jacket: Neese 523AJ 7. Rain Pants: Neese 523PT 8. Nomex Balaclava: Hatch NH2500 9. Hatch Nomex Gloves: Hatch SOG-L-100-BLK 10. Duty Belt: Blackhawk 41DB00BK-03 11. BDU Belt: Blackhawk - 41DP36BK-50 12. Holster: Safariland – 6004 (specific for the TLR-2 light or M6) ) 13. Handgun Light: Streamlight TLR-2 #69120-TLR-2 14. Double Mag Holder: Bianchi Accumold 7302 15. Handcuff Case: Bianchi Accumold 7300-7300S 16. Gear Bag: Hatch G3 17. BDU Top: Navy Propper F5452 18. BDU Trouser : Navy Propper F5201 19. BDU Shirt &Pant: (Sniper/Observer Team Only) One pair of camouflaged fatigues: TRU-SPEC Subdued Tactical Tiger (USH287-shirt, U-TR179) 20. 5.11 Tactical HRT Shirt: #72004 in dark navy blue #724 21. 5.11 Tactical HRT Pant: #74001 in dark navy blue #724 22. Boots: Black, 6” or 8” Tactical Design, Gore Tex or other waterproof design 23. Impact Weapon: Department Authorized Impact Weapon 24. Chemical Agent: Department Authorized Chemical Agent All other required equipment will be furnished by WEB through the Task Force Budget. B. All team members are responsible for the maintenance and upkeep of their equipment. This includes any equipment issued through Westshore Enforcement Bureau SWAT. Failure to maintain the property of Westshore Enforcement Bureau SWAT can result in disciplinary action or expulsion from the team. Any problems should be brought to the attention of any Westshore Enforcement Bureau SWAT Commander at the member’s earliest convenience.
37
Team Training Westshore Enforcement Bureau SWAT requires all personnel assigned to the team to engage in training and readiness exercises. All training will be documented and the records retained for future reference. Lead trainers will be required to submit a properly constructed lesson plan to the team commander on the scheduled training day. These lesson plans will include the date of training, time, location, topic, Student Performance Objectives (SPO’s), equipment list, roster and a description of the planned training. The purpose of this standard is to ensure that team members have ample opportunity to practice their special skills and develop their abilities to function effectively as a team. This is necessary because many skills are perishable and must be exercised in order to build and maintain proficiency. Operational simulations should be included in the training program, and if the agency also has a separate hostage negotiation team, its personnel should be required to train with the SWAT team. Absence from Training Team members may find that on occasion it will become necessary to be absent from training. Certainly every effort should be made to schedule your time around the Westshore Enforcement Bureau SWAT training schedule, so conflicts are minimal. It is recognized that court cases, illness/injury, outside training classes and administrative demands may interfere. It should be recognized by team members that when an absence from training occurs, an immediate weakness is created within the team structure and additionally a void within the training documentation. Continued absences from training to the detriment of the team structure may be referred to the team commander for resolution. Even though a team member may not be able to control the circumstances that would necessitate his/her absence from training, it does not eliminate the responsibility they have to justify their absence and complete make-up training; to the extent it is available. The importance of solid, realistic, and verifiable training cannot be overstressed because under stress officers revert back to training. The UNITS collective knowledge, experience, and frequency of training ensures that the perishable skills utilize in special operations are of the highest level of readiness. The dedication and commitment by both the WEB Police departments as well as each team member will be demonstrated in the member’s performance during operations and will reflect back on the quality and quantity of training provided.
Frequency of Training A. Basic Training – Each new member of Westshore Enforcement Bureau SWAT will successfully complete a forty hour basic SWAT school during his/her probationary period. The officer must successfully complete all requirements of the course. The members host agency is responsible for the cost of this training. If no basic SWAT schools are available during the officer’s probationary period, the officer shall successfully complete said training at the earliest convenience.
B. Monthly – The Westshore Enforcement Bureau SWAT will train as a group or in part at least once a month (for eight hours). Sniper/Observer Teams will practice an additional 8 hrs. a 38
month. The second 8 hour block for the Sniper/Observer Team will be dedicated to the precision rifle. C. Training Blocks – The Westshore Enforcement Bureau SWAT will schedule a three day training block semi-annually (Spring/Fall). This block will consist of the eight hour training day for that month plus two additional training days. Every other calendar year, Westshore Enforcement Bureau SWAT will schedule a five day training block. This block will consist of the eight hour training day for the month plus four additional training days. This five day training block will be conducted in the Fall and replace the Fall three day semi annual training block. D. Augmented Firearms – The Westshore Enforcement Bureau SWAT firearm trainers will forward a course of fire to each Westshore Enforcement Bureau department. At least one time every other month, while on duty at their host agency, the Westshore Enforcement Bureau SWAT members will shoot the course of fire submitted for that month. The member will submit in writing, his score for each course of fire, to the Westshore Enforcement Bureau SWAT commander.
Documentation of Training All training sessions will be documented in syllabus format and should contain the following information: • • • • • • • • •
Date/Time Location Topic Instructor(s) Length Course Composition Course Goal Performance Objectives Minimum Performance Standards (if applicable)
Attached to syllabus shall be a critique of the training session which should contain the following: • • • • •
Roster of personnel who attended Special note reference to problems or positive results Equipment problems/needs Blatant safety violations List of members who obtained or did not obtain Minimum Performance Standards
Copies of completed training syllabuses shall be forwarded to the WEB Chief in charge for dissemination for WEB Chiefs.
Minimum Performance Standards Minimum performance standards will be established for critical tasks and will consist of a PASS/FAIL score. The minimum performance standards should reflect the participant’s knowledge/ability of the concept presented. In the event a team member fails to make the minimum performance standard, additional training will be provided to ensure he obtains the necessary knowledge/ability. All remedial training shall be 39
documented. Failing to maintain the minimum performance standard may result in the member being placed in an inactive status with the UNIT or removal from the Team.
WESTSHORE ENFORCEMENT BUREAU SWAT Bay Village
Fairview Park
Lakewood
North Olmsted
Rocky River
DOCUMENTATION OF TRAINING DATE: TIME: LOCATION: INSTRUCTORS: TOPIC: LENGTH OF INSTRUCTION: COURSE COMPOSITION
COURSE GOALS
PERFORMANCE OBJECTIVES
MINIMUM PERFORMANCE STANDARDS
SPECIAL NOTE REFERENCE TO PROBLEMS OR POSITIVE RESULTS
40
Westlake
(1)
WESTSHORE ENFORCEMENT BUREAU SWAT Bay Village
Fairview Park
Lakewood
North Olmsted
Rocky River
Westlake
DOCUMENTATION OF TRAINING (Continued from page one)
EQUIPMENT PROBLEMS / NEEDS
SAFETY VIOLATIONS
ATTENDEES THAT WHO OBTAINED OR DID NOT OBTAIN MINIMUM PERFORMANCE STANDARDS
Evaluated by:__________________________
SWAT OIC: __________________________
(2)
41
WESTSHORE ENFORCEMENT BUREAU SWAT Bay Village
Fairview Park
Lakewood
North Olmsted
Rocky River
Westlake
DATE: BLOCK OF INSTRUCTION: INSTRUCTORS: 5 point scale: 1=failure 2=deficient 3=proficient 4=accomplished 5=advanced
Name
Safety
Weapons Accuracy Task Notes Handling Performance
Bielozer Bourque Brewer Coyle Dennison Dungan Fiorilli Flowers Flynn Foye Frey Fritsch Fuchs Goodwin Guzik Guzman Hudak Kalo King Manion McGuiggan Mihalak Miller Morley O’Neill Pasti Pelagalli Rusinko Schultz Scullin Sorgi Stillman Stump Swanson Tindira Vet 42
DNA=did not attend
Walling Wintrick
Personnel Training Files All team members have training files established and maintained on them by their individual departments. Copies of letters of commendation, training certificates, seminars or conference syllabus, remedial training, or any other pertinent information which chronicles the members SWAT experience will be placed in their departmental training file. The SWAT UNIT members training files will be kept and maintained by their individual department. Individual team members are responsible for providing copies of the above documents to their individual department administration.
Summary For optimum results, the WEB Department Administrations must provide continuous support, even when the threat potential is low, to ensure the skill level and technical abilities of each team member allows for the greatest degree of safety. The UNIT accepts the responsibility for the quality, safety, and documentation of training. The WEB departments shall be responsible for the amount of training each officer attends.
43
Disciplinary Procedures A. Upon the violation of any Westshore Enforcement Bureau SWAT rule or regulation, the commander may document the incident and make notification to the member’s Chief and the officer involved, with a recommendation for disciplinary action. Upon review of the violation, the Westshore Enforcement Bureau Chiefs of Police will then set a disposition against the infraction through the use of the following measures: 1. Written reprimand with verbal counseling. 2. Limited suspension from all unit activities. 3. Expulsion from the unit. B. Any action taken by the Westshore Enforcement Bureau Chiefs of Police is final and will be communicated immediately to the officer involved and his/her respective Chief. C. Any disciplinary action taken may be in addition to, or in correlation with, any departmental disciplinary action. D. Any written documentation will be placed into the member’s Westshore Enforcement Bureau SWAT personnel file for a period of two (2) years. After that period of time, the member may submit a written request to have the documentation removed. The Westshore Enforcement Bureau SWAT Command Staff, as well as the Westshore Enforcement Bureau SWAT Chiefs of Police will make the final decision on all requests.
44
Administrative Procedures A. Upon recognition by any member of the Command Staff of characteristics indicative of excessive emotional stress in any team member, immediate contact will be made with that team member's Chief of Police/Fire, and a recommendation will be submitted to the Westshore Enforcement Bureau Chiefs of Police to initiate a case review, with possible psychological testing and/or counseling. Any testing or counseling costs will be the responsibility of the member’s home agency. B. If, in the opinion of the Westshore Enforcement Bureau SWAT Chiefs of Police, the request is justified, notification to the specific member's Chief of Police/Fire will be made along with a notification of limited suspension from all unit activities. C. Upon completion of a re-test, the Westshore Enforcement Bureau SWAT will reevaluate the team member's status and either reinstate or remove him/her from team membership. D. If re-testing is requested and the team member refuses to comply, he/she will then be removed from team membership. E. When a Westshore Enforcement Bureau SWAT member is involved in a shooting, he/she shall be placed on administrative leave pending the investigation of the incident by all concerned agencies, i.e., *receiver agency, Cuyahoga County Prosecutor or individual city Prosecutor's Office. Anytime a Westshore Enforcement Bureau SWAT member uses his weapon to inflict deadly force, the weapon shall be turned over to the officer in charge of the host agency or his designate for evidentiary purposes. Notification of the shooting must be made to the Chief of Police (or senior-most officer available) of both the *receiver agency and the officer's (involved in shooting) Chief or senior-most officer available. This notification shall be made by any means available to the Westshore Enforcement Bureau SWAT Commander. *Receiver agency - the police department who has requested assistance from Westshore Enforcement Bureau SWAT. These procedures are not intended to be used as a standard of care in a negligence lawsuit but, rather, it is intended to be used as a set of guidelines to be followed during emergency and/or unusual situations in order to minimize the danger and risks of life, health and property.
45
Use of Force Progressive Use of Force I.
Purpose The purpose of this policy is to provide police officers with guidelines on the use of deadly and non-deadly force.
II.
Policy This team recognizes and respects the value and special integrity of each human life. In vesting police officers with the lawful authority to use force to protect the public welfare, a careful balancing of all human interests is required. Therefore, it is the policy of Westshore Enforcement Bureau SWAT that police officers shall use only the force that is reasonably necessary to effectively bring an incident under control, while protecting the lives of the officer or another. When Westshore Enforcement Bureau SWAT members are involved in any situation that could create significant emotional stress, the Westshore Enforcement Bureau SWAT Commander or his designee will make contact with the local Critical Incident Stress Debriefing Unit. Arrangements will be made to initiate a stress debriefing, which will be required attendance for all members. In the event that C.I.S.D. (Critical Incident Stress Debriefing) facilitators recognize characteristics in any member that would indicate the member is a possible threat to himself/herself or others, immediate notification to the member's Chief of Police will be made.
III.
Definitions A. Deadly Force - any use of force that is likely to cause death or serious bodily harm. B. Non-deadly Force - any use of force other than that which is considered deadly force.
IV.
Procedures A. Parameters for use of deadly force: 1. Defense of life and significant threat to others. a. An officer may use deadly force to protect themselves or others from what he reasonably believes to be an immediate threat of death or serious bodily harm. b. An officer may use deadly force to affect the capture and prevent the escape of a suspect where the officer has probable cause to believe that the suspect poses a significant threat of death or serious physical harm to the officer or others. c. No distinction shall be made relative to the age of the intended target of deadly force. Self-defense and imminent threat shall be the only policy guideline for employing deadly force.
46
B. Specific procedures relating to the use and discharge of firearms. 1. A firearm used by a police officer against another human being is considered deadly force. The previously listed parameters are equally applicable to the use of firearms. 2. Police officers shall adhere to the following guidelines regarding the use and discharge of their firearm. a. Before using a firearm, a police officer should identify himself/herself as a law enforcement officer and state his intent to shoot, where feasible. b. Except for general maintenance, storage or authorized training, officers shall not draw or exhibit their firearm unless circumstances create a reasonable cause to believe that it may be necessary to use the weapon in conformance with this policy. 3. In addition to the self-defense situation and the arrest of a suspect as previously outlined, a police officer may also discharge a weapon under the following circumstances: a. During range practice or competitive sporting events. b. When the situation occurs, a firearm may be used in the following situations: 1. For self-defense and/or defense of others; 2. To prevent the suffering of a badly injured animal or in the defense of a menacing animal. C. Parameters for use of non-deadly force: 1. Where deadly force is not authorized, officers should assess the incident in order to determine which non-deadly technique or weapon will best de-escalate the incident and bring it under control in a safe manner. 2. Police officers are authorized to use team-approved non-deadly force techniques and issued equipment for resolution of incidents, as follows: a. To protect themselves or another from physical harm; or b. To restrain or subdue a resistant individual; or c. To bring an unlawful situation safely and effectively under control.
D. Training and qualifications: 1. Deadly weapons: a. Authorized weapons utilized by Westshore Enforcement Bureau SWAT members must be those that have been approved and registered through the officer's home agency. Additionally, the officer must have received departmental training on the firearm(s) utilized and be subject to passing annual state qualifications through his/her agency. 47
. Westshore Enforcement Bureau SWAT members will be subject to tactical firearm’s qualifications on these weapons as well. Westshore Enforcement Bureau SWAT specified weapons, such as the submachine gun, machine gun, carbine or scoped long gun, must be those with which the team member has received training through Westshore Enforcement Bureau SWAT. Additionally, Westshore Enforcement Bureau SWAT members will be subject to passing the state qualification, as well as Westshore Enforcement Bureau SWAT qualifications for any Westshore Enforcement Bureau SWAT authorized weapon. b. The team shall schedule regular training and qualification sessions for Westshore Enforcement Bureau SWAT approved weapons, which will be graded on a pass/fail basis. c. Westshore Enforcement Bureau SWAT members, who fail to receive a passing score in accordance with team testing procedures, shall be relieved of their Westshore Enforcement Bureau SWAT responsibilities. d. Westshore Enforcement Bureau SWAT members shall not be permitted to carry any weapon and/or ammunition with which they have not been able to qualify with during the calendar year. e. Westshore Enforcement Bureau SWAT members that have taken extended leave due to an illness or injury will be required to re-qualify before returning to Westshore Enforcement Bureau SWAT duties. 2. Less lethal weapons and methods: a. Westshore Enforcement Bureau SWAT members are not permitted to use a less lethal weapon unless qualified in its proficient use as determined by training procedures. b. The following less lethal weapons are authorized: 1. 2. 3. 4. 5.
PR-24 Taser ASP Baton/Straight Baton OC.CS.CN Less lethal munitions a. 37mm Sage Gun b. Pepper Ball Launcher c. Impact Weapons d. Chemical Agents
E. Reporting use of force: 1. A written report prepared according to team procedures will be required in the following situations: a. When a firearm is discharged outside of the firing range. 48
b. When a use of force results in death or injury. c. When a less lethal weapon is used on a person. 2. A supervisor from the receiver agency will be immediately summoned (if not already present) to the scene and will comply with investigative procedures as required by the department in the following situations: a. When a firearm is discharged outside of the firing range. b. When a use of force results in death or serious injury. c. When a subject complains that an injury has been inflicted. F. Team response: 1. Deadly force incident c. When a Westshore Enforcement Bureau SWAT member's use of force causes death or serious physical harm, the officer shall be placed on administrative leave after completing all internal investigative requirements and until it is determined by a mental health professional, that the police officer is ready to return to duty. d. The receiver agency shall conduct both an administrative and criminal investigation of the incident. e. The receiver agency Law Director, City Prosecutor or Cuyahoga County Prosecutor's Office shall be immediately contacted any time a team member uses force that results in death or serious physical injury. Their investigation is not intended to replace or take the place of the receiving agency's criminal or administrative investigations. The order of contact shall be as shown on Attachment "County Prosecutors' Office Contacts" 2. Administrative review of critical incidents: a. It is recognized when an officer is faced with a violent suspect, it may be necessary to employ unconventional techniques to control the situation and ensure officer safety. Such incidents must be thoroughly documented and justified. b. All reported uses of force will be reviewed by the appropriate authority to determine whether, 1. Any Westshore Enforcement Bureau SWAT rules, policy or procedures were violated; 2. The policy was clearly understandable and effective to cover the situation; 3. Westshore Enforcement Bureau SWAT training is currently adequate. c. All findings of policy violations or training inadequacies shall be reported to the Westshore Enforcement Bureau SWAT Command Staff for resolution and/or discipline. 49
d. All use of force incident reports shall be retained as required by state law. e. There will be a regular review of use of force incidents by the appropriate authority to ascertain training and policy needs.
USE OF FORCE REPORT FORM Westshore Enforcement Bureau SWAT 50
12650 DETROIT AVENUE LAKEWOOD, OHIO 44107 CALL-OUT REPORT # SUSPECTS LAST NAME RACE
SEX
INCIDENT # FIRST
DATE
MIDDLE
AGE
Was Suspect Rendered Unconscious? Was Suspect Injured? If “Yes”, Explain Nature of the Injury? Where Treated? Was Officer(s) Injured? If “Yes”, Explain Nature of the Injury? Where Treated? Under the Influence of Alcohol Under the Influence of Drugs Emotionally Disturbed Person Number of Officers Present at Time of Arrest? Number of Suspects That Resisted Arrest? Psychological Intimidation Verbal Threats Passive Resistance
ADDRESS
D.O.B.
Necessary to Effect Arrest Necessary to Defend Another To Restrain for Subject’s Safety
TIME
S.S.N.
PHONE (H)
~ REASON FOR USE OF FORCE ~ Necessary to Defend Officer To Prevent Violent, Forcible Felony Other: ~ INJURIES ~ No Yes No Yes Attending Physician: No
Yes
Attending Physician: ~ SUSPECT ~ Suspected Under the Influence of Alcohol Suspected Under the Influence of Drugs Other:
~ LEVEL OF RESISTANCE ~ Defensive Resistance Active Aggression Aggravated Active Aggression ~ EXPLANATION(S) OF RESISTANCE ~ ~ Psychological Intimidation ~
~ Verbal Threats ~
~ Passive Resistance ~
~ Defensive Resistance ~
~ Active Aggression ~
51
PHONE (W)
~ Aggravated Active Aggression ~
~ LEVEL OF FORCE USED ~ Officer(s) Presence: What was suspect response?
Verbal Direction: What directions were given to the suspect? What was the suspect’s response?
Soft Empty Hand Control: Type of technique, location of technique, suspect response, injury sustained (if applicable), number of strikes to effect arrest of suspect.
Intermediate Weapons: Type of weapon, type of technique, location of strike, suspect’s response, injury sustained (if applicable), and number of strikes to affect arrest of suspect.
Deadly Force: Type of weapon, suspect’s response, injury sustained (if applicable)
52
~ SUPPLEMENTAL NARRATIVE ~ ____________________________________________________________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________________________________________________________ __________________________________________________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________________________________________________________ ______________________________________________________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________________________________________________________ __________________________________________________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________________________________________________ Officers Making Report I.D.#
Supervisor Approving:
Date of Incident:
53
Noise/Flash Diversionary Devices I.
Purpose The purpose of this policy is to provide Westshore Enforcement Bureau SWAT officers with guidelines in the safe and proper use of the NFDD (Noise/Flash Diversionary Device). The NFDD is an explosive device that, when properly deployed, produces six (6) to eight (8) seconds of physiological involuntary distraction which prohibits organized resistance.
II.
Policy NFDD’s are among the most useful tools to law enforcement today. Their continued use and availability is only possible through proper training, justification and deployment. Only team members authorized to deploy devices shall do so. No indiscriminate detonation of a noise/flash device will be permitted. All team members shall be trained, tested and certified in the safe use of flash/noise devices on an annual basis. MEMBERS who have successfully completed a Westshore Enforcement Bureau SWAT approved training course in the proper use and deployment of flash/sound diversionary devices shall be certified/authorized to use them during actual operations. In order to remain certified and authorized to use the devices, personnel shall successfully complete a refresher course on an annual basis. Because of the specialized nature of these devices and the training required to properly deploy them, their use shall be restricted to trained MEMBERS of Westshore Enforcement Bureau SWAT.
III.
Procedures A. Special care should be exercised when detonation is likely to be completed in a structure where children or the elderly are present. B. Due to the potential fire hazard, officers shall, whenever possible, visually inspect the area of their throw prior to detonation. *Because flash/sound diversionary devices have the potential to ignite flammable materials, a portable fire extinguisher shall be readily available whenever devices are to be deployed. 1. Avoid clothing, paper, upholstery, etc. C. Although the NFDD has no separating sub munitions and fragmentation is near zero, flying objects are always a possibility. Officers shall deploy the NFDD avoiding areas that have loose objects present when possible. D. When handling a NFDD, all personnel should use safety equipment. Safety equipment would include, but is not limited to: 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6.
Eye protection Ear protection Helmet Body Armor Gloves and long sleeve BDU Ballistic or non-ballistic shield. 54
E. Upon detonation of the NFDD, smoke is produced. At the earliest convenience, officers should ventilate the area of deployment for the benefit of officers, suspects, and civilians. The deploying officer is responsible for the recovery of the NFDD body and spoon. F. With the production of a loud noise, accompanied by a brilliant flash of light, exposure to the NFDD may produce sensory overload. After deployment, officers shall comfort and reassure those exposed. IV.
Failure to Detonate A. Officer should always have a back-up device ready to deploy. B. If a device fails to detonate, a second device should be immediately deployed whenever possible C. After securing the area, it will be necessary to remove the un-detonated device: 1. Avoid handling; use a shovel or other object to move. 2. Before moving the NFDD, check for proper separation of pin and lever. 3. Immediately submerge the NFDD in a bucket of water and wait for at least 24 hours.
V.
Justification A. Westshore Enforcement Bureau SWAT officers may deploy a flash/noise device whenever a low-level lethality diversion is necessary to enable an entry to be made or an arrest to be effected. 1. Barricaded suspect or hostage situation 2. High risk warrant service 3. Distracting a subject to allow apprehension or detention 4. Any situation that has the potential of being a life threatening or violent confrontation.
IV.
Review Process The Unit Commander shall review the use of flash/sound diversionary devices as soon as practical following each incident or operation to ensure the device was used according to policy and that the devices functioned properly. Information obtained from this review shall be used for statistical and training purposes.
V.
Documentation The MEMBER responsible for the deployment of the NFDD in an actual operation or training scenario shall record the serial number of said NFDD for documentation purposes. This documentation will be retained for submission to the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco and Firearms.
55
Chemical Munitions I.
Purpose The purpose of this policy is to provide Westshore Enforcement Bureau SWAT officers with guidelines for the proper use of chemical munitions.
II.
Policy The use of chemical munitions is an effective less lethal tool in subduing armed and dangerous persons, forcing a barricaded subject from a stronghold or dispersing a riotous crowd. It shall be the policy of Westshore Enforcement Bureau SWAT, that officers will only deploy chemical munitions with the authorization of designated Westshore Enforcement Bureau SWAT Command Personnel and in accordance with the proper escalation of force. Officers responsible for the deployment of such munitions shall be trained, tested and certified on an annual basis.
I.
Procedures A. Westshore Enforcement Bureau SWAT Command Personnel will have full control of all chemical agents and their use. B. Westshore Enforcement Bureau SWAT Command Personnel shall consult with the scene commander on the deployment of chemical munitions. C. Evacuation procedures should be followed if innocent people are at risk of being contaminated. D. All officers involved in the deployment of chemical munitions should be equipped with gas masks and gloves. E. Medical personnel should be staged and prepared to render first aid to contaminated suspects, officers and/or civilians. F. CN, CS, OC and smoke are the only authorized agents utilized by Westshore Enforcement Bureau SWAT. G. Chemical munitions use within a structure: 1. Only non-burning type grenades and projectiles should be used within a structure, unless the suspect’s threat to human life is such that lethal force would be justified and the device used is designed to minimize a potential fire hazard, and is contained in an accepted manner. 2. Deployment of all chemical munitions shall be accomplished in the safest manner possible. 3. Westshore Enforcement Bureau SWAT Command Personnel, in conjunction with the Chemical Munitions Officer, shall determine what type and amount of chemical munitions to be deployed. 4. The Chemical Munitions Officer shall keep accurate records in regard to the chemical munitions issued, used and recovered. 56
5. Fire department personnel should be staged and prepared to control any fire. H. Chemical munitions in outdoor use: 1. Westshore Enforcement Bureau SWAT Commanders or the scene commander shall designate what formations are to be used by officers on the strike or riot line. 2. Burning projectiles are acceptable for use in an outdoor environment. 3. Westshore Enforcement Bureau SWAT Command Personnel, in conjunction with the Chemical Munitions Officer, shall determine what type and amount of chemical munitions to be deployed. 4. Chemical Munitions canisters are to be thrown on the ground or launched behind the strikers or rioters. Projectiles are to be fired behind the strikers or rioters. Wood or foam rubber "knee knockers" are to be fired at the ground and ricocheted towards the strikers or rioters. 5. In the event the suspect(s) presents a serious risk of death or injury to himself or any person(s), specialty impact weapons (less lethal munitions) may be direct fired at a suspect. 6. Any person struck with less lethal munitions by a Westshore Enforcement Bureau SWAT member should be, when possible, transported to the hospital for evaluation. I. Decontamination Procedures: 1. At the completion of the incident, the Chemical Munitions Officer shall be responsible for initiating decontamination procedures as appropriate. a. Policing area for expended munitions b. Preparing area for ventilation c. Distribute decontamination documentation J. The Chemical Munitions Officer shall evaluate each incident where agents were deployed and prepare a written report addressing training and procedure.
57
Shock-Lock Breaching The shock-lock officer will be an officer who is certified in the deployment of the Royal Arms shock-lock round. The shock-lock officer is the primary officer tasked with breaching a lock with the Royal Arms shock-lock round loaded shotgun. He will defeat the locking mechanism by "cutting" it with the shock-lock rounds as they are fired from a shotgun. Shotgun as a Breaching Tool When properly deployed, a shotgun is an extremely versatile breaching tool that can offer a number of advantages over other methods of breaching during high-risk dynamic entries. Shotgun door breaching is quicker than manual door breaching, jamb spreading, or ramming. It is as safe and requires less training than explosive entry. Shotgun breaching is not limited to just doors. Shotguns can also be deployed to breach iron barred windows, dislodge padlock shackles, break chain-link, and defeat vehicle trunk and door mechanisms with little, if any, collateral damage to the vehicle's interior. Not every shotgun is suitable for breaching operations. Westshore Enforcement Bureau SWAT currently authorizes a number of shotguns as breaching guns: • • •
Remington 870 Royal Arms Mossberg 9200 Basic street sweeper-type shotgun
Compactness, maneuverability and the ability for rapid follow-up shots are important features for a breaching shotgun to have. The shotgun should be pistol-gripped, and equipped with a muzzle stand-off device for safety. The standoff, called a "breacher," is affixed to the end of the barrel, or in some cases, the barrel may be ported on all sides at 3" from the end of the barrel. The process of doing this vents muzzle gas pressure. The shotgun may then be fired with the muzzle in direct contact with the jamb or lock mechanisms without any possibility of the barrel blowing up, and reduces muzzle jump and recoil. Breaching rounds are fired point-blank from the breaching shotgun directly at a door's locks, cross-bolts and/or hinges to defeat them. An iron-barred window is taken out by shooting out the affixed iron bolts on three sides of the bars and allowing the frame to swing out of the way. Breaching rounds are fired into the door jamb, door or window bar bolt at a 45-degree angle, and 45-degrees up or down. When attempting to breach a reinforced, security type door, the rounds should be fired 20-degrees up or down, depending on whether a lock, hinge or bolt is being defeated. Failure to follow these rules may result in serious injury or death to anyone on the other side. Because of the possibility of fragmentation, eye protection is necessary for those engaged in breaching operations. The door breacher should also consider using a balaclava, to filter out the fine copper powder discharge from the round, which could be unhealthy if inhaled.
58
Hook The hook man is the officer who will carry a tool which looks like a steel hook and its' design has been standardized by the Westshore Enforcement Bureau SWAT Section. The hook man works hand in hand with the shock-lock officer as it is through a combination of their efforts in which a wrought iron door with or without mesh can be opened quickly and safely. This minimizes the danger to both the entry team, as it minimizes their exposure, and the suspects inside the structure, as it allows for a timely completion and resolution of the mission. On approach to a gate the hook man will try the door knob with one hand and if unlocked, will pull the gate open and hold it open until the entry team makes entry. If the door is locked then the hook man must visually inspect the door and find a location on the door on which he can place the hook in order to give him the most leverage in pulling the door open. Upon placement of the hook, the hook man must run his hands down the hook until he grabs the built in lanyard at the end and begins pulling, thus creating constant tension on the gate in the direction in which it opens. The hook man must pull with authority, but remain in control as he shouldn't lose his balance while pulling as that would delay the team in bypassing the door or gate. The hook should be pulled at a slight angle towards the hinge side and away from the lock as it allows for the best leverage for the hook man and it also allows the shock-lock officer the necessary amount of room in which to manipulate the shotgun and attaining the proper angle in which to defeat the locking mechanism. An iron door without mesh requires nothing more than simply placing the hook in position on an adjoining crossbar near the lock. This placement, as in the majority of instances, must be far enough from the hinge side to allow for optimum leverage, but not so close to the lock as to impede the shock-lock officer from working to his maximum effectiveness. An iron door with mesh requires the hook man to forcefully "sink" the hook in a downward angle while attempting to catch the hook on the appropriate crossbar. The "sinking" of the hook through the mesh is to be done with enough force so as to cut through it with the tip of the hook, but not so hard that the officer would injure himself as his hands could get caught up against the broken mesh. The hook should be placed at approximately the same height as the position of the lock. A crossbar in this area would provide the best location. The following illustration depicts the placement of a hook in an ideal situation. In the event the door does not have horizontal crossbars, but is fitted with an ornamental design inlay, care should be taken when setting the hook, to provide maximum effectiveness. In case the hinges are the mechanisms to be defeated the placement of the hook is reversed, being closer toward the hinge side and at about center on the door in line with the center hinge. Ram The ram man's responsibility is to manually breach the interior door using a door ram specifically designed for that function. This is to be done after the exterior wrought iron door has already been breached. On the approach to a target door, the ram man should be third in the breach team line behind the shock-lock and the hook. The ram man should position himself in such a manner that as soon as the exterior wrought iron door is breached that he may be able to step forward and breach the interior door. One area in which the ram man may want to position himself is centered on the target door and far away from the door so that when the exterior wrought iron door is opened it can swing freely all the way open with the assistance of the hook man. Once that door is breached it is at that time the ram man steps up to perform his function. Based on the recon team’s information the ram man will hold the ram one of two ways. Ideally the ram man will strike the door with his back to the hinges. The area the ram man is attempting to strike with the ram is that area just inside the doorknob and deadbolt area. When speaking of the 59
area just inside the doorknob and deadbolt area, it is that area on the hinge side of the doorknob. The ram man should strike this area with enough force to effectively defeat its' locking mechanism by forcing it inward to a point where the door swings freely of its lock. This may take repeated attempts by the ram man. If at some point the ram man finds that his attempts to breach the door should fall short, then on the call of "shock!" the shock-lock man would step up an attempt to open the door through the use of shock-lock rounds. After the interior door has been breached the breach team will step aside and allow the entry team unobstructed access to the front door. Depending on the plan, the breach team will either augment the entry team or take positions assigned during the plan. Back up Shock Lock The responsibility of the back-up shock-lock is for him to take the place of the shock-lock should he either run out of shock-lock rounds, have a malfunction with his shotgun or need additional assistance for any necessary reason. If the shock-lock officer calls "malfunction" or "check," at that time the back-up shocklock officer steps forward and assume his responsibility. After the successful breaching of the door(s) has taken place, the four-man breach team will more often than not become part of the entry team. This will be left up to the discretion of the team leader and assistant team leader as they make the warrant plan and make assignments. The standard method for which the breach team is to augment the entry team is for the two shock-lock officers to pair up and make entry together and for the hook and ram officers to do the same. The four-man breach team will make entry only after the assigned entry teams members have entered then fill in behind them accordingly. Shocking Pad Locks Areas to focus on: 1.
Metal that holds lock in place
2.
Screws that mount the locking mechanism to frame of door.
3.
Small hinge located at locking mechanism.
4.
Top of padlock.
Barrel of breaching gun is placed against above mentioned areas, pushing against it in a downward angle, being constantly aware of fragmentation to all sides of the blast. Shocker must consider the composition of the door or gate, and how heavy-duty the area in question is when considering TESAR#1 or #2 rounds.
60
Armored Rescue Vehicle I. Purpose The purpose of this policy is to establish guidelines for use of the Westshore Enforcement Bureau SWAT armored rescue vehicle for the officers of Westshore Enforcement Bureau SWAT.
II. Policy Westshore Enforcement Bureau SWAT is required to operate in extremely hazardous conditions to prevent the loss of life, ensure public safety, enforce laws, and solve unusual problems. MEMBERS of Westshore Enforcement Bureau SWAT are authorized to use the armored rescue vehicle to assist in the completion of their assigned tasks.
III. Parameters Persons authorized to operate the armored rescue vehicle - Only MEMBERS of Westshore Enforcement Bureau SWAT who have successfully completed a UNIT approved training course in the operation of the armored rescue vehicle are authorized to operate same. MEMBERS should complete a refresher course in the operation of the armored rescue vehicle on an annual basis.
Authorization for use – Except in extreme emergencies, the armored rescue vehicle shall not be used without the authorization of the UNIT Commander or Assistant Commanders. The UNIT Commander of Assistant Commander has the authority to permit the use of the armored rescue vehicle during operations when the armored rescue vehicle is going to be utilized to rescue persons from hazards, contain a dangerous subject or situation to an area, or protect public safety officers from harm while performing any function in a hazardous environment. Any time a UNIT member wishes to utilize the armored rescue vehicle to breach a fortified location, ram buildings, or intentionally cause large amounts of damage to property, the UNIT Commander or Assistant must receive authorization from the Chief of Police of the community in which the operation is to take place in. Operating guidelines – During any time the armored rescue vehicle is operated, two Officers (a driver and an assistant driver) should man the vehicle. If an extreme emergency exists, one UNIT member may operate the armored rescue vehicle. The armored rescue vehicle should be escorted by a Police vehicle when operating out of the incident area. Officers operating the armored rescue vehicle shall exercise extreme care and caution during operation. All Ohio motor vehicle traffic laws applicable to operation of a motor vehicle shall be adhered to.
61
Canine Unit Any Canine Unit utilized by Westshore Enforcement Bureau SWAT shall be required to meet State of Ohio certification standards. It shall be the responsibility of the agency that owns the canine to provide documentation that such certifications have been achieved. Westshore Enforcement Bureau SWAT will assume no responsibility for testing and for certifying the canine.
62
Medic Unit I.
Purpose The purpose of the Westshore Enforcement Bureau SWAT Tactical Emergency Medical Support (TEMS) group is to provide the team with personnel who have specialized training and equipment to meet the unique needs of Westshore Enforcement Bureau SWAT. TEMS will offer prevention and wellness care to team members, provide initial emergency medical care to team members, other police officers and civilians in the warm zone and help coordinate emergency care needs at the local hospital. Personnel with training in medicine across the barricade may provide assistance to the negotiators as requested. In addition, TEMS members will provide advice and safety issue concerns to the command staff as needed.
II.
Goals and Objectives A. To serve as a medical liaison and provide coordination between fire, medical and tactical units during Westshore Enforcement Bureau SWAT activities. B. To provide communication and coordination with the chief officer of the responding EMS unit of the authority having jurisdiction (AHJ) - usually the fire department chief or his designate. This includes establishing the safety of the medical staging area and obtaining any specialized equipment or personnel. C. To assist the EMS personnel from the AHJ. This may include providing additional medics to work with the EMS team and thereby minimize the on-scene personnel requirements for the AHJ in a prolonged situation. D. To make available specialized equipment on scene. E. To provide specialized on-scene care for injured tactical officers. This may include temporizing management of non-serious injuries and illnesses, which will allow the tactical officer to continue functioning during the operation. F. To develop first-aid training and equipment for the tactical officers. G. To provide emergency care for injured canine units. H. To provide documentation of health status of persons taken into custody by Metro SWAT prior to their release to the local police department and make recommendations for further immediate medical care vs. release for incarceration. I. To advise the Westshore Enforcement Bureau SWAT Command Staff concerning non-police safety issues such as environmental concerns, dealing with hazardous materials, medical issues with team members, or evacuation of injured parties. J. To provide preventative medical support for team members.
63
III.
Personnel The team is committed to an objective selection process, following the format for other team members. A. Requirements for tactical medical personnel, pre-hiring considerations. 1. Firefighter-paramedic licensed in the State of Ohio and a member of a fire department in Cuyahoga County in the political subdivision of the servicing community, through which the candidate is employed. 2. Three years field experience as a paramedic. 3. Must be in good physical health and must be capable of maintaining a high degree of physical fitness. 4. Must be a motivated fire-medic professional. 5. Must have shown a dedication to training and reliability in attendance. 6. Must have no disciplinary action filed in the past year with the fire department/EMS Unit. 7. Must have the approval and support of their Chief. 8. Must pass a background check. 9. Must pass a personal interview-oral review board with the Medical Advisor, Lead Medic and a member of the Command Staff. 10. Must be of a nature character that exemplifies a high level of self-control and professionalism at all times. B. Training Requirements A. Personnel are required to meet the paramedic continuing education requirements for the State of Ohio including BCLS and ACLS certification or state approved equivalent course. B. In addition, BTLS or PHTLS training is mandatory. C. A basic TEMS course. D. There is a required tactical medical orientation with the Lead Medic and Medical Advisor. In addition, a team orientation must be attended when available. E. Continuing education will consist of at least two medical trainings a year.
64
F. Medics are required to attend eight (8) of the tactical trainings offered per year and become familiar with all aspects of tactical team operations including team SOPs, the chain of command, types of missions, special operations tactics and techniques, less lethal munitions, the force continuum and methods of communication. IV.
Organization A. The Tactical Medic Unit is organized as a non-transporting EMS unit licensed by the Board of Pharmacy in the State of Ohio and the DEA. The Medical Advisor shall be a board certified emergency medicine physician, licensed in Ohio and practicing in Cuyahoga County. B. The team Commander, with the approval of the Medical Advisor will designate a Lead Medic. This medic will be responsible for organizational needs, scheduling training, maintaining equipment, and handling needed correspondence. The Medical Advisor or team commander may assign other duties. Duties may be delegated to other team medics under the Lead Medic's supervision. The Lead Medic or Medical Advisor will participate in the oral review board activities.
V.
Operational and Deployment Issues A. On receiving notification of training or activation, the medic will notify the Lead Medic or his designate of their availability. If a medic will be out of town or otherwise unavailable, they are required to notify the Lead Medic of that status and contact the Lakewood Police Department to have their name added to the “Out of Service Board”. B. Medics will report on scene to the Lead Medic or the Medical Advisor. If neither is present, the medic will report to the Westshore Enforcement Bureau SWAT Commander. C. Establishment of the tactical medic sector includes: 1. Obtain a briefing from the command staff regarding any special needs for this situation. 2. Request an EMS unit if not on scene and coordinate communications between them, any fire units needed, and the command staff. In high risk warrant situations, you must obtain approval from the command staff before notifying the local EMS. You may have them stage at the fire department with no further information given reference the operation. 3. Establish a safe staging area for the medics in close proximity to the Tactical Command Unit. 4. Obtain and review medical equipment. D. The tactical medics will provide on-going communications between medical and fire personnel and the command staff.
65
E. The tactical medic will assist the EMS team of the AHJ at the scene. If transportation is necessary, additional medic units will be called. The tactical medic will assure the presence of at least one EMS unit on scene at all times, unless directed otherwise by command staff. If treatment has been initiated by a tactical medic that exceeds the training/standing orders of the EMS team, a tactical medic will accompany the patient in transport. F. The tactical medic will be responsible for the initial evaluation and field stabilization of injured Westshore Enforcement Bureau SWAT officers as well as other police officers and civilians until they can be safely evacuated to the cold zone and care is assumed by the local EMS. A tactical medic will accompany an injured Westshore Enforcement Bureau SWAT member to the hospital whenever possible. G. The tactical medic will be responsible for the initial evaluation and field stabilization of any person taken into custody by Westshore Enforcement Bureau SWAT. Persons may be turned over to the EMS team if they require further medical care. Persons may only be released back to police custody with the approval of Code 1 status by medical control. H. The tactical medic is responsible for the documentation of all activities, including run reports, patient refusals, and a medical pre-plan, Data Collection System, Incident and Casualty Report Forms (CONTOMS). A written report shall be completed after each activation and signed by all medical personnel present. A copy of all forms shall be submitted to the team administrator, the Medical Advisor and the Lead Medic.
I. Written medical plan for every incident and training will include: 1. Date, time and type of incident 2. Medic in charge 3. All medical personnel on scene 4. Medic in charge of writing reports: run reports, casualty reports, incident reports, debriefing report and letter to local fire chief 5. Safety issues noted and type of advice given 6. Note hospital informed - medical control 7. Note EMNS requested and where staged, personnel involved 8. Note LZ and Life Flight/Medflight notified for standby status if indicated 9. Medical Advisor contacted post incident if not on scene J. Medics will attend all briefings and debriefings and CISD activities as scheduled. K. The tactical medic shall serve as the safety officer for non-police considerations. L. All policies in administrative manual will be followed. M. Any time any medical advice is given to a team member, a record of that should be generated. If it is of a general nature - like how to care for poison ivy to the whole group, this may be reported on the incident medical report. If the advice is given to a single person, or of a more confidential nature, write a note with date, time officer involved, nature of questions, nature of advice, sign and send to the Medical Advisor.
66
VI.
Medical Policies A. Treatment Policy 1. Whenever the medic is requested to provide medical evaluation and/or treatment, the patient will be assessed, a chart generated, and medical control at Lakewood hospital contacted. B. Patient Refusal 1. If a patient wishes to refuse treatment or transport, the paramedic will complete a patient refusal checklist, document on the chart that the checklist has been completed, and attach the checklist to the chart. Contact medical control at AGMC for authorization to accept the refusal. C. DOA Protocol 1. A DOA is that patient who, under no observation or availability of history as to the onset of cessation of vital functions, is found to be unresponsive and in full cardiopulmonary arrest. The patient may manifest such findings as fixed, dilated, unreactive pupils, injuries incompatible with life, decomposition, rigor mortis, or dependent lividity. In the event that information is available that the onset of cessation of vital functions occurred within 20 minutes prior to examination (30 minutes in children), regardless of cause, or in the presence of any vital functions or pupillary response, or if any doubt exists, resuscitative measures are to be instituted. Blunt force trauma with no vital signs will not be resuscitated. Penetrating trauma with no vital signs can be pronounced, unless hypothermia is suspected D. Universal Precautions 1. Blood and body substance procedures are to be followed on all patient encounters. E. Transport Policy 1. If the patient needs care beyond that permitted by standing orders, and in all patients who require ambulance transport, the patient is to be referred to the ambulance service designated by the authority having jurisdiction. If the medic has administered a treatment beyond the level of training or standing orders of that ambulance crew, the medic must accompany the patient to the hospital unless their medical control is willing to accept patient responsibility. 2. Any police officer with an on-duty injury should be encouraged to receive on scene medical evaluation and transport to an ED for definitive medical care. This is especially important in the asymptomatic patient with a GSW to body armor or less lethal ammunition strike to head, neck or torso. 3. As a general rule, the police officer will be transported to a Level I or II trauma center. You are to strongly encourage the following specialized transport considerations. a. Penetrating eye injuries – Metro General Hospital, Cleveland, Ohio 67
b. Severe Orthopedic injury only - Metro General Hospital, Cleveland, Ohio (Two or more long bone fractures, pelvic fractures, or amputations) c. Severe Multi - System trauma - Metro General Hospital, Cleveland, Ohio d. Burns/Inhalation/chemical exposure - Metro General Hospital, Cleveland, Ohio
F. Medical Complaint Policy 1. All complaints regarding EMS activities received by anyone in Westshore Enforcement Bureau SWAT will be referred to a team commander, Lead Medic and the Medical Advisor. All complaints will be requested to be in writing with as much documentation as is available. Complaints of an administrative (i.e., non-medical) nature will be handled by the standard Westshore Enforcement Bureau SWAT policy. 2. The Medical Advisor will notify the individual regarding the specifics of the complaint, and arrange a meeting between the medic, team commander, Lead Medic and Medical Advisor to review the complaint. 3. The medical complaint procedure will result in a finding of either unsubstantiated, a deficit in knowledge or a performance problem. An education remediation program to meet a knowledge deficit will be developed for the individual. Inadequate performance may be addressed by educational remediation, with or without suspension, or termination. 4. All actions by the Medical Advisor arising from medical complaints shall be provided in a timely manner (generally within thirty days), be consistent with recommendations which resulted from previous similar situations in the EMS service, and be nondiscriminatory in nature. They should take into consideration the EMT’s record of patient care performance as well as previous patient care incidents involving the EMT, and be responsive to the particular needs of the EMT. (from NAEMPS) 5. If the medic or complaining party is not satisfied with the results of the procedure, they may request an arbitration - dispute resolution proceeding within thirty days following receipt of the results. 6. If the dispute is not resolved to the satisfaction of all parties, the issue will be referred to the WESHARE Physician Advisory Board. 7. Complaints relating to alleged violations of Chapter 4765 of the Ohio Revised Code or Chapters 4765-2 to 4765-10 of the Administrative Code shall be referred to the State EMS Board.
68
VII.
Standing Orders The following are standing orders for procedures, which may be performed by certified paramedics while they are on duty for Westshore Enforcement Bureau SWAT. A. Drug List 1. Cyanide Antidote Kit (Lilly) 2. Epinephrine 1:1000 0.4cc s/c, up to 0.5 cc IVP 3. Ketorolac (Toredol) 60 mg IM or 30 mg IVP 4. Morphine sulfate: 5 mg IVP, may repeat as needed 5. Naloxone 2 mg IVP, MR x 1 6. Normal saline or ringer's lactate IV solution 7. Oxygen 8. Solu-delta-cortef/prednisolone sodium succinate powder 500 mg/10 ml for veterinary use 9. Tetracaine 2 gtts in affected eye, one dosage 10. Proventil, MDI - two-puffs/one minute apart, can be repeated every six hours. 11. Allegra 60 mg use every 12 hrs, pain rhinitis 12. Ambien 5mg tablet for sleep breaks 13. Over the counter meds will be made available to tactical officers per their request. a. Advil b. Band-Aids c. Benadryl cream d. Cold Tablets e. Cough drops f. Immodium g. Neosporin ointment h. Sudaphedrine i. Tums j. Tylenol k. AED EMT-A Procedures 1. EMT-A procedures may be performed per standard RPAB - Region 8 Protocol C. IV Access 1. Start an IV line or saline lock for any situation that requires or may require fluid resuscitation or drug administration. Only peripheral sites, including external jugular, and femoral vein are permitted. In-dwelling catheters and shunts may be accessed if needed. D. Airway 1. In addition to standard EMT-A maneuvers, needle decompression of the chest (needle thoracotomy) is permitted for a suspected tension pneumothorax. Endotracheal and nasotrachial intubation are permitted as needed.
69
E. Pain Control 1. Medics may administer morphine or ketorolac to an injured Westshore Enforcement Bureau SWAT member or associated police officer. Ketorolac (Toredol) is administered as 60 mg IM or 30 mg IVP and is not repeated. Morphine is administered as 5 mg IVP and may be repeated every 5 minutes as needed for pain control. Morphine may not be administered IM without a physician’s order. Ketorolac and morphine may be administered together. Vital signs and LOC must be monitored and naloxone must be available. Naloxone may also be used in suspected cases of drug overdose. 2. In persons who are asthmatic, inquire about aspirin allergy/sensitivity before giving Toredol. Since it is a non-steroidal, there may be some cross sensitivity. F. Eye Contamination 1. The most effective way to flush the eye requires eye anesthesia. This is accomplished using tetracaine - 2 drops to the affected eye. G. Severe Allergic Reaction/Anaphylactic Shock 1. Epinephrine 1:1000, 0.4 cc s/c may be administered. If no response, after IV line is established, give up to 0.5 cc very slow IVP (over 5 minutes). 2. Benadryl 50 mg IVP 3. Solumedral 125 mg IVP H. Cyanide Antidote Kit (If possibility exists Haz – Mat team should be called for kit) 1. Amyl nitrate pearls: crush pearl and have patient inhale for 30 seconds, breath oxygen for thirty seconds, repeat sequence until sodium nitrite loading is completed. May be placed in ambu bag. 2. Sodium nitrite: administer 10 ml of the 3% solution slow IVP over 3 minutes. 3. Sodium thiosulfate: administer 50 cc IV bolus over 10 minutes. Closely monitor BP and cardiac monitor when available. I. Respiratory Distress 1. Patients with wheezing and respiratory distress may be treated with Proventil MDI - two puffs, one minute apart. This may be repeated once in 6 hours. Further respiratory distress will require transport and ED evaluation. J. Canine Policies 1. The medic may treat any canine unit with the dog handler's permission. 2. For a dog in full arrest, intubate and begin CPR. Start an IV of NS TKO - W/O for trauma arrest. Administer 1 mg epinephrine IV or IC q 5 minutes. 3. Stop resuscitation at 15 minutes if there is no response. 70
4. In the case of a severely injured dog, the medic may intubate as needed. Start an IV of NS w/o, and administer one amp of steroids - prednisolone 5 mg/Kg IVP. K. Preplan for Clan Lab Raid. 1. Lead Medic should be advised at least 24 hours in advance to obtain the following items: from WSHZMT - explosive atmosphere tester, seranex suits, silver shield gloves, cyanide antidote kit. 2. At time of callout, advise medics to bring SCBA's from home department. 3. During staging, plans for dry decon and medical surveillance should be made. 4. Decision to call the Westshore Enforcement Bureau Hazardous Materials Unit is that of the Command Staff. If that decision is made, the medic will contact the fire chief of the local department and request a HAZMAT call out for an "unknown spill" to stage at the local fire department. L. Major Trauma Protocol 1. Hot Zone a. Tactical officers will render care. b. Manually open airway, maintain spinal alignment. c. Control severe bleeding with direct pressure or tourniquet. d. Extricate 2. Warm Zone The benefits of medical intervention must be carefully weighed against the risk of operating in the warm zone. a. Triage patients b. Airway maneuvers including intubation or cricothyroidotomy 1. Manual methods may not be feasible depending on movement 2. Needed to cold zone 3. Decompress tension pneumothorax 4. Cover major traumatic defect with petroleum gauze and dressing c. Cervical stabilization for blunt trauma d. Hemorrhage Control 1. Be more liberal with tourniquets if there will be limited ability to maintain pressure during movement to cold zone e. IV access 1. Normal saline or saline lock. If patient has only external hemorrhage that has been controlled, give 20cc/Kg and reassess. Repeat if still in shock. If patient has uncontrolled external hemorrhage or internal hemorrhage is suspected, administer one liter of NS or LR, repeat if B/P < 90, B/P > 120 titrate to maintain B/P at 120.
71
3. Cold Zone a. Scene size up 1. Body substance isolation precautions 2. Scene hazards 3. Number of patients 4. Need for more help or equipment 5. Mechanism of injury b. Initial assessment 1. General impression of the patient 2. Level of consciousness 3. Airway 4. Breathing 5. Circulation c. Determine load and go situation 1. Decreased level of consciousness 2. Abnormal respirations or chest exam 3. Abnormal circulation - shock 4. Signs of conditions that rapidly lead to shock: tender, distended abdomen, pelvic instability, bilateral femur fractures d. Place patient on long backboard if available - may use SKED e. Give 15 1/min oxygen by non-rebreather mask when available, assist ventilations as needed with BVM. Relieve airway obstructions. f. CPR if needed - blunt trauma cardiac arrests generally should not be resuscitated. g. Control major external bleeding - remove tourniquets if possible. h. Transport - goal is scene time under 5 minutes. i. Contact receiving hospital en route. EMT may request trauma team earlier. j. Start one large bore IV normal saline if not already done. If patient has only external hemorrhage that has been controlled, give 20cc/Kg and reassess. Repeat if still in shock. If patient has uncontrolled external hemorrhage or internal hemorrhage is suspected, run IV at a rate sufficient to maintain peripheral perfusion - i.e., radial pulse. k. Perform rapid trauma survey or focused exam. l. Perform detailed exam as time permits. m. Perform ongoing exam - monitor patient with cardiac monitor, pulse oximeter, reassess vital signs and initial assessment every 5 minutes during transport. n. Splint fractures, inspect and dress wounds.
72
Chaplain Unit I.
Purpose The purpose of the Westshore Enforcement Bureau SWAT Chaplain Unit is to provide the team personnel, member jurisdiction and victims with resources, which would not be practical or prudent for current Westshore Enforcement Bureau SWAT divisions in any given crisis. To provide a buffer between the “rule of law” and the “realities of life”, for both officer and offended. Bringing glory to our God through a service in His name to our fellow officers, victims and support staff.
II.
Goals and Objectives A. To act as a liaison and provide coordination between various victims’ rights resources and officer support services. (See attached list) B. To act as liaison and representative for the Westshore Enforcement Bureau SWAT with various C.I.S.D. teams. Providing reciprocity for such services that have been offered to the Westshore Enforcement Bureau SWAT Team in time of need. C. To act as an apologist to the public on Team actions, methods and procedures so as to gain voluntary compliance of displaced persons during evacuations. To assist with evacuations in non-hazardous environments as may be directed by Command Staff. D. To seek out the “human factor” in various crisis and seek to meet those needs, or direct support to those in need. E. To provide officer training, referral and council for stress management or post-traumatic stress incidents. F. To provide insight for officers’ spouses, children, other family members or significant others relative to the Team’s expectations, inherent hazards, safety and support systems. G. At the direction of the Command Staff, to act as a “Media Officer” for victims to keep them “in the loop” during the crisis. H. To provide logistic assistance for both officers and victims as might be needed or directed by the Command Staff. I. To provide “ceremonial representation” for the Westshore Enforcement Bureau SWAT officer’s in family funerals, benedictions, local churches, speakers' bureau services or other functions as may be requested by the Command Staff. J. To assist member jurisdictions with death notifications and subsequent support as may be requested and approved by the Command Staff. K. To act as an “interested, yet disinterested” confidential sounding board on various issues for members, families and Command Staff.
III.
Personnel Staffing and Considerations 73
A. Requirements for Chaplain (Pre-appointment) 1. In as much as the very title “Chaplain” suggests a spiritual foundation, a candidate should be either: an ordained Minister with a Church body which is licensed and recognized as such by the State government in which it originates; or a Licensed Pastor within a Church body recognized by the State in which it originates; or a lay person who functions under the direct supervision of and has the endorsement of the Ecclesiastical Authority of a Church body or Pastor licensed by the State government in which it originates. 2. Someone with a demonstrated heart for service to the needs of others. 3. Someone who lives within or works within one of the member jurisdictions. 4. Must submit to and pass a background check. 5. Must pass a personal interview and have the unanimous approval of the Command Staff and Westshore Enforcement Bureau Chiefs of Police. 6. Display moral, ethical and spiritual maturity. B. Requirements for Chaplain (Post-appointment)
IV.
1. Be willing to meet with Command Staff as requested. 2. Review and learn Westshore Enforcement Bureau SWAT policy, procedures and tactical methods to a degree that they can answer for the Team as provided in the Goals and Objectives. 3. Assist with Team training as may be requested by the Command Staff. (Both participating and conducting training as directed). 4. Make him/herself available for council or referral to council as needed in a nonproselytizing manner, without compromising his/her personal values and faith. 5. Be available for Team activation and call outs. 6. Be willing to conduct community, family or departmental informational meetings as requested by the Command Staff. 7. Affirmatively seek out areas of service to Team members, families and victims as described in the Goals and Objectives. Organization A. The Westshore Enforcement Bureau SWAT Command Staff, with the approval of the Executive Board, will designate a lead Chaplain. The lead Chaplain will be responsible for organizational needs, scheduling, training, equipment maintaining, reporting and any other correspondence needed. The lead Chaplain will recruit and pre-screen candidates as the Team may have need. B. At the direction of the lead Chaplain, and with the approval of the Command Staff, Chaplains will be assigned for “on call” periods on a rotating basis, 24/7.
V.
Procedures A. Team Activation 1. The “on call” Chaplain will respond to the designated member jurisdiction in the same manner that other Westshore Enforcement Bureau SWAT members do. 2. With the assistance of the Command Staff, the Chaplain will assess those areas for which service might be needed and set out to establish means for meeting those needs. 3. The Chaplain will notify other Team Chaplains or member jurisdiction Chaplains for assistance as needed. 4. The Chaplain will take no direct action without the knowledge and consent of the 74
incident Westshore Enforcement Bureau SWAT Commander. 5. The “on call” Chaplain will act as a communication link between the Chaplains Unit, all other Westshore Enforcement Bureau SWAT divisions, and the Command Staff. 6. The “on call” Chaplain will provide a written report to the Command Staff as to the services provided during Westshore Enforcement Bureau SWAT activation.
B. Other Services 1. The Chaplain Unit will seek to make its services available to members, family and victims as outlined in the goals and objectives at all times. 2. Should services or referrals be made available during non- training or call out times, the Chaplain will provide the Command Staff with a brief notification of the services or referrals offered. Such notifications will be made by telephone or personal contact as soon as possible/practical after the contact or referral, and followed by mention in a monthly activity report. Every effort will be made to protect the confidentiality of the requestor and the need.
75
Westshore Enforcement Bureau SWAT Rules and Regulations RULE 1: VIOLATION OF RULES Members of Westshore Enforcement Bureau SWAT shall not commit any acts or omit any acts, which constitute a violation of any of the rules, regulations, directives or orders of Westshore Enforcement Bureau SWAT whether stated in this rule or elsewhere.
RULE 2: POSSESSION OF DRUGS - USE OF TOBACCO PRODUCTS Members of Westshore Enforcement Bureau SWAT shall not possess or use any controlled substances, narcotic or hallucinogen, which could affect or impair their ability to function in their job, except when prescribed in the treatment of the member by a physician or dentist. When any controlled substances are prescribed, members shall notify Westshore Enforcement Bureau SWAT Commander. Members shall only use tobacco products at such time during activations and/or training when inactive (on break), and in a manner that the use of such does not offend or disturb others. RULE 3: UNSATISFACTORY PERFORMANCE Members shall maintain sufficient competency to properly perform their duties and assume the responsibility of their positions. Members shall perform their duties in a manner that will maintain the highest standards of efficiency in carrying out the function and objectives of Westshore Enforcement Bureau SWAT. Unsatisfactory performance may be demonstrated by failure to follow policies and procedures of Westshore Enforcement Bureau SWAT, failure to produce timely documentation as required by Command Personnel, team leaders or other designated Westshore Enforcement Bureau SWAT personnel, failure to pass any required qualification for membership, or in any way fail to conform to the work standards established by Westshore Enforcement Bureau SWAT. In addition to other indicators of unsatisfactory performance, the following will be considered prima facia evidence of unsatisfactory performance: repeated infractions of the rules, regulations, directives or orders of Westshore Enforcement Bureau SWAT. RULE 4: USE OF ALCOHOL ON DUTY OR IN UNIFORM Members of Westshore Enforcement Bureau SWAT shall not consume intoxicating beverages while in uniform or on duty. Members of Westshore Enforcement Bureau SWAT shall not appear for duty or be on duty while under the influence of intoxicants to any degree whatsoever, or with an odor of intoxicants on their breath. Members of Westshore Enforcement Bureau SWAT, while off duty, shall refrain from consuming intoxicating beverages to the extent that it results in impairment, intoxication or obnoxious or offensive behavior which discredits them or Westshore Enforcement Bureau SWAT, or creates excessive absenteeism in responding to team activations. RULE 5: INSUBORDINATION Members of Westshore Enforcement Bureau SWAT shall promptly obey any lawful orders, requests, instructions or directives relative to the day-to-day operations, given by the Commander, Assistant Commanders or team instructors. This will include orders or instructions relayed from the Commander or Assistant Commanders by an officer of the same or lesser rank.
RULE 6: ABUSE OF POSITION 76
A. Use of official position or identification Members of Westshore Enforcement Bureau SWAT shall not use their official position for: 1. Personal or financial gain. 2. Obtaining privileges not otherwise available to them except in the performance of duty. 3. Avoiding consequences of illegal acts. Members shall not lend to another person their identification cards or uniform, or permit them to be photographed or reproduced without the approval of Westshore Enforcement Bureau SWAT Commander. B. Use of name, photograph or title Members of Westshore Enforcement Bureau SWAT shall not authorize the use of their names, photographs or official titles that identify them as Westshore Enforcement Bureau SWAT members in connection with testimonials or advertisements or any commodity or commercial enterprise without the approval of Westshore Enforcement Bureau SWAT Commander. RULE 7: COURTESY Members of Westshore Enforcement Bureau SWAT shall be courteous to the public. Members shall be tactful in the performance of their duties, and shall control their tempers and exercise the utmost patience and discretion and shall not engage in argumentative discussions, even in the face of extreme provocation. In the performance of their duties, members shall not use course, profane or insolent language or gestures and shall not express any prejudices concerning race, sex, religion, politics, national origin, lifestyles or similar personal characteristics. RULE 8: PUBLIC STATEMENTS AND APPEARANCES Members of Westshore Enforcement Bureau SWAT shall not publicly criticize or ridicule Westshore Enforcement Bureau SWAT, it's policies or other members, by speech, writing or other expression where such speech, writing or other expression is defamatory, obscene, unlawful, undermines the effectiveness of Westshore Enforcement Bureau SWAT, interferes with the maintenance of discipline or is made with reckless disregard for truth or falsity. Members of Westshore Enforcement Bureau SWAT shall not address public gatherings, appear on radio or television, prepare any articles for publication, act as correspondent to a newspaper or periodical, or release or divulge investigative information or any other matters of Westshore Enforcement Bureau SWAT while holding themselves out as representing Westshore Enforcement Bureau SWAT in such manner without proper authority. RULE 9: PERSONAL APPEARANCE Members of Westshore Enforcement Bureau SWAT, on duty, shall wear uniforms in accordance with the rules and regulations, except when acting under proper and specific orders from the Commander. Members on duty shall maintain a neat, well-groomed appearance. RULE 10: TELEPHONE / CHANGE OF ADDRESS Members of Westshore Enforcement Bureau SWAT shall have telephones in their residences and shall immediately report any change of telephone numbers or addresses to their Commander and to such other persons as may be appropriate. RULE 11: ABUSE OF PROCESS Members shall not intentionally make false accusations of a criminal charge. RULE 12: USE OF ISSUED EQUIPMENT Members of Westshore Enforcement Bureau SWAT shall use Westshore Enforcement Bureau SWAT equipment for its intended purpose and in accordance with established Westshore Enforcement Bureau SWAT procedures, and shall not abuse, damage or lose Westshore Enforcement Bureau SWAT equipment. All Westshore Enforcement Bureau SWAT equipment issued to members shall be maintained in proper order. Equipment will be returned to Westshore Enforcement Bureau SWAT 77
Commander upon request, replacement or termination of service. Westshore Enforcement Bureau SWAT members shall take great care in the transportation and storage of Westshore Enforcement Bureau SWAT issued equipment. Equipment carried and or stored in a motor vehicle shall be secured out of sight and shall be secured behind lock and key in either the trunk or vehicle interior. Westshore Enforcement Bureau SWAT equipment stored at the member's residence shall be secured behind lock and key and never accessible to unauthorized persons or children. RULE 12: TREATMENT OF PERSONS IN CUSTODY Members of Westshore Enforcement Bureau SWAT shall not mistreat persons who are in their custody. Members shall handle such persons in accordance with the law and Westshore Enforcement Bureau SWAT procedures. RULE 14: USE OF FORCE Members shall not use more force in any situation than is reasonably necessary under the circumstances. Members shall use force in accordance with the law and Westshore Enforcement Bureau SWAT procedures. RULE 15: USE OF WEAPONS Members shall not use or handle weapons in a careless or imprudent manner. Members shall use weapons in accordance with the law and Westshore Enforcement Bureau SWAT procedures. RULE 16: ARREST, SEARCH AND SEIZURE Members shall not make any arrest, search or seizure, which they know or should have known, is not in accordance with the law and Westshore Enforcement Bureau SWAT procedure. RULE 17: REPORTS OF INJURY OR ILLNESS INCURRED IN TRAINING OR CALLOUTS Members of Westshore Enforcement Bureau SWAT shall immediately report any injury or illness incurred as a result of Westshore Enforcement Bureau SWAT training or callouts to Westshore Enforcement Bureau SWAT medic staff. RULE 18: FALSIFICATION OF DOCUMENTS Members of Westshore Enforcement Bureau SWAT shall complete all documentation with the highest degree of honesty and integrity. Members shall not falsify any document including required testing forms as well as member activation reports.
COUNTY PROSECUTORS' OFFICE CONTACTS 78
Cuyahoga County Prosecutor's Office 1. Patrick Kelly Assistant Prosecutor
(216) 441-6607 (Home) (216) 543-0196 (Cell) (216) 698-2719 (Office)
Individual City Prosecutor's Office 1. City of Bay Village Prosecutor Gary Hotz
2. City of Fairview Park Prosecutor John Castele
3. City of Lakewood Prosecutor Regis McGann
(440) 892-1990 (Office)
(440) 250-0998 (Home) (440) 227-5188 (Cell) (216) 241-7255 (Office)
(216) 696-7883 (Office) (440) 892-0446 (Home) (216) 807-1662 (Pager) (216) 469-8487 (Cell)
4. City of North Olmsted Prosecutor Dan Ryan
(440) 777-3535 (Office)
5. City of Rocky River Prosecutor Gary Hotz
(440) 892-1990 (Office)
6. City of Westlake Prosecutor John Wheeler
(440) 522-0800 (Office)
79
