Glendale Police Department
General Order
USE OF FORCE
Date Issued
02-02-2000

Date Effective
02-02-2000

23.000
Review Date
02-25-2000

Page
1 of 21

23.001 Purpose: (1.2.2)
A. The policies of the Glendale Police Department regarding the use of physical force,
less lethal and lethal weapons and equipment, deadly force, and discharging firearms
will be set forth in this order. Each sworn officer, employee and police recruit will
have access to this order and will be instructed in these applicable policies before
employing any of the weapons or tactics set forth herein. Only department-issued or
approved weapons, equipment, and chemical agents will be authorized.
B. These policies are intended to provide guidance to employees in carrying out public
safety activities and the mission of the department. They are definitely not intended to
be standards of conduct that, if breached, expose employees to civil liability because
to do so would seriously undermine the department’s ability and motivation for
writing policy and severely restrict employee discretion.
23.002 Philosophy:
A. Use of Force/Control: It is the philosophy of the Glendale Police Department to use
only the amount of force or control reasonably necessary to conduct lawful public
safety activities and the mission of the department. The method of force/control used
is predicated on the circumstances of the contact and the amount of resistance
presented by the suspect. Officers will only use the amount of force/control
reasonably necessary to overcome this resistance, protect property and save lives.
Under no circumstances will the force/control used be greater than necessary to
achieve lawful objectives. Deadly force should not be used unless an officer
reasonably believes it is necessary to protect the officer or another person from
imminent danger of death or serious physical injury.
B. Use of Physical Control/Force and Less Lethal Weapons (1.2.2): It is the philosophy
of the Department to use only the amount of control/force necessary to conduct lawful
public safety activities and missions of the department. The type and method of
control/force will be only that which is reasonable and necessary based upon the
circumstances. (1.3.6.d)
C. Use of Deadly Physical Force (1.2.2): It is the philosophy of the Department to
use deadly physical force only to overcome an attack, which could produce serious
physical injury or death to the employee or to another person where no other means
are reasonably available to overcome the attacker. Any other use of deadly physical
force will be presumed to be a deviation of policy and as such, the officer must
substantiate the necessity for the use of the weapon and/or force.

Revised 05/20/09

Glendale Police Department
General Order
USE OF FORCE
Date Issued
01-29-2000

Date Effective
01-02-2000

23.000
Review Date
02-15-2000

Page
2 of 21

In situations where the employee must overcome an attack that the employee
reasonably believes would produce serious physical injury or death to the employee or
another person, the employee may resort to any method to overcome the attack. Once
the situation has stabilized and the threat of serious physical injury or death is past, the
employee must once again immediately resort to approved less-lethal force tactics.
23.003 Definitions: (1.2.2) (1.3.6.d)
A. Deadly or Lethal Physical Force: Any control tactic or use of force/control, which
by it’s design or intended use, could produce serious physical injury or death to an
employee or to another person. Deadly force does not include the discharge of a
firearm for training or qualification, hunting or sporting events, test firing in the Crime
Lab, dispatching of injured animals, or TOU tactical extinguishing of lights or any
other circumstances or situations as directed by a member of senior staff.
B. Deadly Force Incident: All instances in which an officer uses deadly force/control in
the line of duty or when acting in a law enforcement capacity.
C. Deadly Weapon: Anything designed for lethal use in a lethal manner, including a
firearm. (1.2.2)
D. Empty Hand Control: A method of control employed by officers without the aid of
equipment or weapons. There are two subcategories called “soft empty hand
techniques” and “hard empty hand techniques”.
E. Hard Empty Hand Techniques: The subcategory in the “empty hand control” that
includes kicks, punches or other striking techniques such as a brachial stun or other
strikes to key motor points that have a moderate chance of injury.
F. Soft Empty Hand Techniques: The subcategory in the “empty hand control” that
includes escort control holds, touch pressure points, and take down techniques that
have a minimal chance of injury.
G. Extended Range Impact Weapon: Less Lethal weapon that deploys a launched
kinetic impact round impact round through the use of a shotgun, Scorpin, or Jaycor
system.

H. Impact Weapons: Authorized department equipment for which the officer has
received training in techniques for striking an aggressive violator. This method of

Revised 05/20/09

Glendale Police Department
General Order
USE OF FORCE
Date Issued
01-29-2000

Date Effective
01-02-2000

23.000
Review Date
02-15-2000

Page
3 of 21

control/force includes tools like the less lethal extended range impact weapons, side
handle baton, straight baton, expandable baton, and/or a flashlight. (1.2.2)
I. Intermediate Weapons: The method of control employed by officers that include the
use of authorized or improvised weapons for which the officer has been trained. Some
of the weapons are OC spray, stun devices, impact weapon strikes, less lethal
extended range impact weapons, light and sound diversion device and canines. (1.2.2)
J. Less Lethal: The application of force and/or tactics, that when properly applied, are
not likely to result in death or serious physical injury. Approved less lethal weapons
include: Less lethal extended range impact weapons, projectiles fired from the
Scorpion, Jaycor Pepper Ball System, 37mm munitions, chemical weapons, noise
flash diversion devices and electronic instruments such as Nova Police Spirit Stun
Device or Taser. Only those techniques that are taught by AZPOST, Academy and
Department instructors should be used.
K. Officer Presence: The method of control/force which includes the mere presence of
an officer in uniform and/or identified by a badge, police identification, police vehicle,
or other form of police identification such as a raid jacket.
L. Oleoresin Capsicum (OC) Spray: Authorized department organically based pepper
spray, less lethal weapon. (1.2.2)
M. Preclusion: Elimination of all lesser means of control/force. The lesser means of
control/force have been tried and they have not been effective, or the type of
resistance is greater than the method of control/force.
N. Progression of Force/Control: Increasing the amount of control/force used until a
level is reached, which enables the employee to control the subject and/or situation in
a safe manner.
O. Reasonable Belief: The conclusion based upon facts and/or totality of the
circumstances that a reasonable police officer would believe to be true.
P. Serious Physical Injury: Any physical injury, which causes serious and permanent
disfigurement, serious impairment of health, or loss or protracted impairment of the
function of any bodily organ or limb.
Q. Use of Force/Control Reporting: The inclusion in a department offense report
narrative and check box sections of the specific actions of a violator, which resulted in

Revised 05/20/09

Glendale Police Department
General Order
USE OF FORCE
Date Issued
01-29-2000

Date Effective
01-02-2000

23.000
Review Date
02-15-2000

Page
4 of 21

the method of control/s by the officer. The officer will also accurately document their
actions taken to overcome the type of resistance of the violator, to effect the arrest, or
to protect life or prevent injury. Lastly, the narrative should include a description of
the observable injuries and the injuries claimed by the violator. (1.3.6.d) (1.3.6.d)
R. Verbal Control/Force: The method of control/force that includes instruction or
direction from an officer in the form of verbal statements or commands.
23.004 METHODS OF FORCE/CONTROL (examples) (1.2.2) (1.3.6.d)
A. Officer Presence: Presence is established through the identification of authority,

which includes, but is not limited to, the mere presence of an officer in uniform,
identification by a badge, police ID, police vehicle, and/or raid jacket. The presence of
a canine is also an example of officer presence.
B. Verbal Control - Persuasion, Negotiation or Command: Includes instruction or
direction from an officer in the form of a verbal statement(s) or command(s). An
example of Verbal control is an officer's communication with a subject that results in
the officer controlling the actions of the subject.
C. Chemical Agents (1.2.2): The use of chemical agents is considered a less lethal tactic.
Oleoresin Capsicum (Cayenne Pepper) is a less lethal weapon designed to disrupt the
intended thought process, with no lasting after effects. Oleoresin Capsicum is
commonly referred to as OC, MACE and pepper spray.
D. Soft Empty Hand Techniques: (1.3.6.d) includes control/force and restraint
defensive less lethal tactics that have a minimal chance of injury.
Include but are not limited to:
1.
Wrist locks
2.
Joint locks
3.
Pressure points

E. Stun Device (1.2.2) A hand held electronic defensive unit: The use of a stun device
is considered a less lethal tactic. It is designed to confuse the signals going from the
brain to the voluntary muscles and thereby achieve incapacitation without harming the
human body.

Revised 05/20/09

Glendale Police Department
General Order
USE OF FORCE
Date Issued
01-29-2000

Date Effective
01-02-2000

23.000
Review Date
02-15-2000

Page
5 of 21

F. Hard Empty Hand: (1.3.6.d) arrest tactics that are considered less lethal tactics,
referred to as personal weapons. Examples of hard empty hand arrest tactics are as
follows:
1. Fist, Palm Heel, Knee, and Elbow Strikes
2. Shin, Bicycle, Hip thrust, and Snap kicks
These techniques have a probability of injury and should be avoided unless all lesser
means of force/control and procedures have been attempted, or are not possible or
reasonable; to prevent injury to the officer and the subject/s involved. Employees will
not purposely strike suspects in the face or head, except in situations where the
suspect has become assaultive/aggressive toward the officer, due to the high
probability of injury.
G. Intermediate Weapons: Less lethal defensive tactics (1.2.2)
1.

Police Baton (Straight or Expandable): A police baton may be used if
empty-hand control techniques have failed, are not possible, or a baton is
necessary and reasonable under the circumstances. Passive resistance or
resistance such as a prisoner's refusal to enter a police vehicle or holding room,
let go of a railing, etc. is not sufficient in and of it self to justify the use of
baton strikes. A police baton will permit officers to defend themselves or
others in situations where the use of deadly force may not be justified or
necessary. When the use of the baton is warranted, officers will attempt to
impact the suspect per policy. Employees will not purposely strike or jab
suspects on the head, neck, sternum, spine, lower abdomen, groin, or kidneys
unless faced with a deadly force situation.

2.

Flashlights are not designed as an impact weapon; however, a flashlight may
be used in a baton-like manner if empty-hand control techniques have failed or
are not possible under the circumstances and a baton is not readily available.
Employees will not purposely strike or jab suspects on the head, neck,
sternum, spine, lower abdomen, groin, or kidneys unless faced with a deadly
force situation. (1.2.2)

3.

Less Lethal Shotgun Launched Kinetic Impact Round: Less-lethal tactic
where an impact projectile similar to a bean-bag or sock, ect. is fired from a
departmental shotgun. Less lethal can be fired in situations that are suitable to
Departmental training guidelines.

4.

Scorpion/Jaycor Pepperball System: Less-lethal extended range impact

Revised 05/20/09

Glendale Police Department
General Order
USE OF FORCE
Date Issued
01-29-2000

Date Effective
01-02-2000

23.000
Review Date
02-15-2000

Page
6 of 21

weapons tactic or OC delivery mechanism, where rubber ball type projectiles
or OC Pepper ball rounds may be fired in situations that are suitable to
Departmental training guidelines.
5.

Canines: Canines, properly employed, are considered a less-lethal tactic.
Police canines will not be used in any circumstances where a strong potential
exists for discrediting the department.
a) Canines may be used to search for or apprehend felony suspects when use of
other methods is impractical or when public or officer safety is threatened
sufficiently to justify this method of force. Canines may be used to search for
misdemeanor suspects; however, the animal will remain leashed unless officer
safety is threatened.
b) Whenever time and circumstances permit, a verbal warning will be given to a
suspect before unleashing the canine to conduct a search. An announcement
identifying police authority and giving directions to the suspect should be
made in addition to stating that the canine will be released if the suspect fails
to comply.
c) Detailed procedures for canine use are found in Operations Order #51.150

6.

Air Taser 34000 and M Series: Less lethal defensive tactics may be used in
situations that are consistent with Departmental training guidelines.

H. Deadly Force: In situations where the employee must overcome an attack that the
employee reasonably believes would produce serious physical injury or death to the
employee or another person, the employee may resort to any method to overcome the
attack. See #23.002.C (1.2.2) (examples)
1.

Police Vehicles: Use of police vehicles against persons could be considered
use of deadly force, if the vehicle was used as a method of control/force as
outlined in #23.004.H (Also refer to 23.116.A.2, Tactical Considerations
involving vehicle operations).

2.

Discharging of a Firearms: Lethal defensive tactics may be used in
situations that are consistent with Departmental training guidelines.

23.005 Guidelines on use of Physical Force/Control and Less-Lethal Weapons: (1.2.2)

Revised 05/20/09

Glendale Police Department
General Order
USE OF FORCE
Date Issued
01-29-2000

Date Effective
01-02-2000

23.000
Review Date
02-15-2000

Page
7 of 21

A. Oleoresin Capsicum Spray: Oleoresin capsicum (OC) spray (MACE) may be used
when physical force is necessary and justified to subdue a person who is threatening,
resisting, rioting, interfering with an arrest, or to prevent the possibility of injury to
any person. OC spray may also be used to ward off threatening dogs or other animals
and in tactical building entries such as search warrants.
1. All uniformed officers below the rank of Lieutenant and civilian detention
employees will be trained in the use of OC spray
2. Other civilian employees and certified officers above the rank of sergeant may
receive training in the use of OC spray.
3. Once the employee is departmentally trained and issued OC spray, it becomes
mandatory equipment, unless the employee receives written
permission/direction from their Bureau Commander indicating that the OC
spray may not be worn. This document will be permanently stored in the
employee’s personnel file, and forwarded to the Training Bureau.
4. Sworn employees in plainclothes may carry the 3/4-ounce OC spray as readily
available as their weapon.
5. Carrying OC spray is optional for department employees assigned to
undercover operations.
B. Use of Oleoresin Capsicum Spray: Employees using the 2-ounce OC spray will
direct a one-second burst into the face of the suspect. Employees using the 3/4-ounce
spray will direct a 3-second burst into the face of the suspect. The suspect should then
be immediately handcuffed and moved to a well-ventilated area. (1.2.2)
1. Use of Stream: Minimum application distance is 24 to 36 inches, as the
Oleoresin Capsicum may not atomize at shorter distances and the maximum
accuracy distance is 12 feet.
2. Use of Foam / Fog: Minimum application distance is 24 to 36 inches, as the
Oleoresin Capsicum may not atomize at shorter distances and the maximum
accuracy distance is 4-8 feet.
3. Decontamination: warm water can be used to flush the eyes without rubbing.
Suspects should recover within 45 minutes; however, intense sensation of skin
burning may persist 30 to 90 minutes after exposure to OC spray. If water is
not readily available, the Fire Department will be summoned to the scene.
4. Salve or ointments should not be used on affected areas.
5. Employees who have used OC spray will not leave a suspect unattended and
will continue to provide post-use care of the suspect until the suspect has
recovered from the effects of the spray.

Revised 05/20/09

Glendale Police Department
General Order
USE OF FORCE
Date Issued
01-29-2000

Date Effective
01-02-2000

23.000
Review Date
02-15-2000

Page
8 of 21

6. Should a suspect exposed to OC spray complain or display any severe or
abnormal reaction to OC spray at any time, the Fire Department will be
immediately summoned to the scene.
7. Employees will avoid laying suspects on their stomach in a prone position for
any length of time as this can contribute to positional asphyxiation.
C. Tactical Size Oleoresin Capsicum Spray (1.2.2)
1. Only officers and supervisors of SEU, TOU, and canine officers, in addition to
patrol supervisors, will be authorized to carry department-issued tactical size OC
spray (example –Mark 9). Supervisors may give tactical size OC spray to an
officer to deploy in a tactical field force situation.
2. Employees using tactical size OC spray will direct a 1-second burst into the face
of the suspect from a minimum distance of 15 feet. The suspect should then be
immediately handcuffed and moved to a well-ventilated area. Decontamination
procedures for tactical size OC spray are the same as those used for the 2-ounce
OC spray.
3. Employees using tactical size OC spray in a riot control situation should direct the
spray face level, from a minimum distance of 15 feet, into the crowd until the
desired effect is achieved.
D. Tactical Chemical Agents (1.2.2)
1. Chemical agents (example-CS gas) are man-made chemical or organic mixtures
that are designed to cause lachrymation (uncontrollable tearing), irritation,
inflammation, or a combination of any of the three. Chemical agents are minute
solid particles that are deployed in a variety of munitions, including spray, ferret
rounds, 37mm, and other conventional delivery systems. Decontamination
procedures for tactical size OC spray are the same as those used for the 2-ounce
OC spray.
2. Tactical chemical agents by design are considered less-lethal weapons. There is,
however, a possibility of serious allergic reaction in some people. Small children
or persons with respiratory health problems can develop serious illness after
exposure.
3. A G.I.B Sergeant, Patrol Sergeant, a Tactical Operational Unit (TOU) sergeant, or
higher-ranking department supervisor may authorize use of tactical chemical
agents.
E. Electronic Stun Devices: (1.2.2)
This policy establishes guidelines for the training, use and documentation of the
“Nova Police Spirit Stun Device and Air Taser 3400 and M series”.

Revised 05/20/09

Glendale Police Department
General Order
USE OF FORCE
Date Issued
01-29-2000

Date Effective
01-02-2000

23.000
Review Date
02-15-2000

Page
9 of 21

1. The only authorized electronic stun devices will be the handheld "Nova Police
Spirit Stun Device, and the Air Taser 3400 and M series". The units will be carried
on the duty belt in an enclosed department approved holster with a Velcro closure.
No officer will be permitted to carry the device on duty without successful
completion of a training program.
a) Approved holsters:
1. Bladetech Tech-Lock Kydex holster
2. Bladetech Kydex thigh holster
3. Nylon Taser thigh holster with or w/o flap
2. On successful completion of a training program the Nova Spirit stun devices will
be issued equipment and mandatory to carry unless assigned in a non-uniform
capacity.
3. On successful completion of a Taser training program the officer may opt to
carry the Taser full time in lieu of the Nova Spirit stun device. The officer must
have access to a Taser daily to exercise this option in agreement with their
immediate supervisor.
4. The devices may be used when physical force is necessary and justified to prevent
the possibility of injury to the officer or another person, in accordance with
directives. A display of the unit's "test arc" is permitted to gain compliance in an
arrest situation where resistance is anticipated. (1.2.2)
5. The device will NOT be used;
a) Near FLAMMABLE GASSES or LIQUIDS.
b) DRUG HOUSES where ether is suspected to be in use.
c) Against a DEADLY WEAPON.
d) In cases of PASSIVE RESISTANCE unless:
1. The use is reasonable and justified under the circumstances.
2. A lesser means of control/force has been attempted and failed.
e) If there is a possibility of injury to Suspect or Officer
f) To threaten or attempt to GAIN INFORMATION from a suspect.
g) Against a subject already in custody unless physical resistance has to be
overcome.
h) To wake up a suspected intoxicated individual.
i) As a "PROD".
6. NO officer shall playfully, maliciously, or intentionally misuse the unit in a display
of power or against an individual except to gain control of a situation.
VIOLATION OF THIS POLICY WILL RESULT IN DISCIPLINARY ACTION.
7. The actual use of the "NOVA POLICE SPIRIT STUN DEVICE, and AIR
TASER 3400 and M series" will normally require an arrest be made

Revised 05/20/09

Glendale Police Department
General Order
USE OF FORCE
Date Issued
01-29-2000

Date Effective
01-02-2000

23.000
Review Date
02-15-2000

Page
10 of 21

8. The Nova Police Spirit Stun Device and Air Taser 3400 and M series should only
be used in accordance to training guidelines and should not be aimed at the head
and neck area of a suspect if possible.
9. Post treatment of Air Taser:
a) If the probes have penetrated the skin, officers will remove the probes
following training techniques and guidelines.
1.

2.
3.
4.
5.

If the probe/s penetrated a sensitive/soft tissue area such as the face, neck,
head, or female/male genitalia, medical personnel will remove the probes.
(paramedic, nurse, EMT, or a physician).
Once the probes are removed, pictures will be taken of the affected area.
The probes and cartridges will be logged into property as evidence if the
suspect has received a serious injury from the laser.
If the suspect is not injured seriously, the probes and cartridge should be
handled as bio-hazard material (blood items).
Document treatment in departmental report.

F. TARP (Total Appendage Restraint Procedure) (1.2.2)
1. The restraint will be a Department issued restraint, and will be used in accordance
with current training practices.
2. If the TARP restraint is used
a) NEVER place the suspect in a hog-tied position, where the feet are cinched
tightly to the suspect’s hands.
b) Once the TARP restraint has been utilized, the individual will be placed in an
upright, sitting position if possible. Officers are reminded of the dangers of
positional asphyxia. Any exceptions to this would be transportation by a
medical unit only.
c) A supervisor will be notified when a TARP restraint has been used, as will any
transporting units, or detention personnel, if the suspect is booked into jail.
d) The incident will be documented appropriately in the narrative section of the
DR, referring to the restraint as a TARP (Total Appendage Restraint
Procedure). The reference to hobble, and hog-tying are in-correct terms, and
should not be utilized to describe the TARP restraint.
G. Prisoner Restraints
1. Use of Restraints
a) To prevent injury or destruction of property by a combative or belligerent
prisoner, a department issued leg restraint may be used.

Revised 05/20/09

Glendale Police Department
General Order
USE OF FORCE
Date Issued
01-29-2000

Date Effective
01-02-2000

23.000
Review Date
02-15-2000

Page
11 of 21

b) Hog tying, a procedure where the restraint has been wrapped around a
prisoners feet, and then cinched tightly to the prisoners hands, behind their
back, should not be used.
c) A medical unit may be summoned to transport those prisoners who are a risk
factor because of their medical condition, or who cannot be restrained in a safe
and practical manner, in accordance with current training practices.
H. Police Baton General Information: (1.2.2)
1. Police batons should only be used when elevated methods of control are necessary
and justified under the circumstances, and lesser means of control have been
precluded. Any use of the baton not specifically allowed or permitted will have to
be justified by the Officer based on the circumstances that exist.
2. Employees may carry batons at their discretion. Employees who elect to carry
batons must satisfactorily complete a basic baton course, (straight, side-handle, or
expandable) taught by a department impact weapons instructor, or have been
previously certified while in the academy. Employees not previously certified in
basic baton may receive training on duty, or, if they are unable to complete the
training during they’re assigned shift, in an authorized off-duty-training program.
3. The certification for Side-Handle, Straight and Expandable Batons will be an
APOST/GPD approved course of instruction and re-certification will be by a
qualified instructor every two years thereafter. (The re-certification will consist of
a written test, 80% passing and a proficiency test at an acceptable level).
4. Instructors will be re-certified every two years by at least two other GPD/Impact
weapon instructors. (The re-certification will consist of a written test, 90%
passing and a proficiency test at an above average level).
5. Persons wishing to carry the side handle baton are required to obtain their own
certification and re-certification as required by policy. The documentation will
then be forwarded to the Personnel Management Bureau (Training Dept.).
I

Straight Baton: Officers may carry straight batons at their discretion. When the
straight baton is carried the baton and the method of carry will comply with
Department Uniform policies and the documentation of certification will comply too
GPD Directives. (1.2.2)

J. Expandable Baton: Officers may carry the expandable baton at their own discretion.
When the expandable baton is carried the baton and method of carry will comply with

Revised 05/20/09

Glendale Police Department
General Order
USE OF FORCE
Date Issued
01-29-2000

Date Effective
01-02-2000

23.000
Review Date
02-15-2000

Page
12 of 21

Department uniform policy and the documentation of certification will comply too
GPD Directives. (1.2.2)
K. Side-Handle Baton: Officers may carry the side-handle baton at their own discretion.
When the side-handle baton is carried the baton and the method of carry will comply
with Department Uniform Policies and the documentation of certification will comply
with GPD Directives. (1.2.2)
L. Use of Police Impact Weapon: When the police impact weapon is used, it will be
used in accordance to the training the Officer received in the Police Academy and/or
Continued Officer Training provided by/or authorized by the Glendale Police Dept.
When used properly, it is an effective defensive tool for police use when dealing with
unarmed assailants and has proven to be an effective tool in self-defense where the use
of a firearm may not be justified or expedient. (1.2.2)
1. The Primary Striking Points are nerve groupings located in the large muscle
groups:
RADIAL NERVE
MEDIAN NERVE
COMMON PERONEAL
FEMORAL NERVE
TIBIAL NERVE

(Outside forearm)
(Inside forearm)
(Outside thigh)
(Inside thigh above knee)
(Top of calf)

2. The Secondary Anatomical Striking Points are generally a less-lethal technique,
but may be subject to "serious injury"; Consequently, caution should be used in
applying force:
SHIN
INSTEP
KNEE JOINT

ACHILLES TENDON
LOWER ABDOMEN
BACK OF HAND

ELBOW
INSIDE OF WRIST

3. Serious Injury Anatomical Striking Points are areas that have a higher potential
for serious injury and/or death. (Caution and justification must be used when
striking these areas). As a general rule, unless lethal force is necessary, avoid
striking the head and neck areas.
TEMPLE
THROAT

Revised 05/20/09

HOLLOW BEHIND EAR
TAIL BONE (COCCYX)

SOLAR PLEXUS
BRIDGE OF NOSE

Glendale Police Department
General Order
USE OF FORCE
Date Issued
01-29-2000

KIDNEY
SPINE
COLLARBONE

Date Effective
01-02-2000

UPPER LIP
EYES
EARS

23.000
Review Date
02-15-2000

Page
13 of 21

BACK OF NECK
GROIN (TESTES)
JAW

M. Flashlights: (1.2.2)
Flashlights are not designed as an impact weapon; however, a flashlight may be used
in a baton-like manner if empty-hand control techniques have failed or are not
possible under the circumstances, and a baton is not readily available. If a flashlight
is used as an impact weapon, its use is governed under this policy, and the tactics will
follow the training received for a police baton.
23.006 Reporting/Documenting Use of Force/Control Incidents Within DI and/or
Departmental Report (offense report):
(1.3.6.c) (1.3.6.d) (1.3.7)
Any time there is an injury or an alleged injury as a result of a method of force/control
used by department personnel, employees will do the following:
1. Examine any person claiming injury and render first aid.
2. Request paramedics to respond to the scene if needed.
3. Notify a supervisor.
4. Refer to 23.016 for specific information on departmental investigation
procedures
A. Departmental Report (Offense Report): Employees will document all methods of
force/control deployed and the types of suspect resistance in the following manner
within the Offense Report.
1. Employees will include in a departmental offense report all methods of control
used, and when, how, and why methods of control were escalated or de-escalated.
This includes the check box and narrative sections of the offense report.
2. Employees will include in a departmental offense report all types of resistance
used by a suspect. This includes the check box and narrative sections of the
offense report.
3. Documentation of the totality of the circumstances faced by the employee is
extremely important at the time the original report is completed. Facts such as
lighting conditions, call information, officer perception of the facts, and overall
suspect actions should be included in the departmental report.

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Glendale Police Department
General Order
USE OF FORCE
Date Issued
01-29-2000

Date Effective
01-02-2000

23.000
Review Date
02-15-2000

Page
14 of 21

4. In those incidents where a criminal investigator responds to the incident and
conducts an interview with the affected employee, the criminal investigator’s
report will take the place of the affected employee’s documentation.
B. Employees will contact a supervisor when any of the following occurs as it relates
to methods of control: (1.3.6.d) (1.3.7)
1. When injury or alleged injury to a suspect occurs:
2. Allegation of excessive force/control.
3. Citizen complaint
4. Responsibilities of the involved employee.
a) Determine seriousness or potential seriousness of the injury and
immediately notify the radio dispatcher of the need for emergency
medical aid and a supervisor. If uninjured and not in need of medical aid, the
employee will remain at the scene until advised otherwise by supervisory
personnel.
C. A Supervisor will be contacted as soon as possible after the use of any of the
following:
1.
Shotgun/Scorpion/Jaycor Launched Kinetic Impact Round Shooting
Incidents: (1.3.6.c) (1.3.7)
a) The shift commander will be immediately notified of all incidents involving
the use of the listed less lethal options. See G.O.#23.050
b) The affected bureau commander and the duty commander will be immediately
notified of all incidents involving the use of the listed less lethal options. See
G.O. #23.050
c) A shift commander or his/her designee will investigate any intentional
discharge of a Kinetic Impact Round.
1.
The investigating supervisor will contact the Professional Standards
Unit (PSU) as soon as practical to obtain an incident controls number..
2.
35mm or digital photographs will be taken of any injuries.
3.
The General Investigations Bureau and Professional Standards Unit will
be notified and will conduct the investigation when the use of force
results in death or serious injury (hospitalization). (1.2.2)
4.
A shift commander or his designee will investigate any accidental
discharge of an extended range impact weapon.
2. Use of chemical agents.
a) Employee/supervisor ensure suspect has been decontaminated
b) Documentation is completed per 23.006.A

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Glendale Police Department
General Order
USE OF FORCE
Date Issued
01-29-2000

Date Effective
01-02-2000

23.000
Review Date
02-15-2000

Page
15 of 21

2. Use of a TARP restraint:
a) To prevent injury, leg restraints or department issued TARP restraint may be
used in conjunction with the handcuffs, to minimize the movements of
belligerent or combative prisoners.
b) A supervisor will be contacted to evaluate the suspect’s potential for SCDS
(sudden in custody death syndrome).
1.
A supervisor will respond to the scene or to the booking
area (whatever
is the most practical) to conduct the evaluation.
c) Documentation is completed per 23.006.A
4. Canines
a. Exceptions: (1.3.7) Any Glendale police canine injury will be investigated by
a Canine Unit supervisor. The supervisor will submit additional documentation
utilizing the standard Bite Report format.
b. In addition, the Canine Unit Supervisor will complete the Use of
Force/Prisoner Injury Report.
5. Deadly Force: All incidents will be investigated by the Professional Standards
Unit, involved employee's supervisor, and in some cases, General Investigations
Bureau (GIB) (1.3.6.c) (1.3.7)

Revised 05/20/09

Glendale Police Department
General Order
USE OF FORCE
Date Issued
01-29-2000

Date Effective
01-02-2000

23.000
Review Date
02-15-2000

Page
16 of 21

23.008 Table displaying: Types of Resistance and Methods of Control
Types of Resistance
Methods of Control
Passive: (suspect fails to obey any command or direction of the officer,
displays no acts of assault, threat, verbal non-compliance and never
resists control attempt of the officer)

Verbal commands
Soft empty hands

Threaten OC spray
Threaten Stun Device

Verbal Non-Compliance: (Acts where suspect voices their
unwillingness to obey officer’s commands or the conveying of verbal
threats)

Verbal Commands
Soft Empty Hand
Stun Device
OC Spray

Psychological Intimidation: (Physical acts or non-verbal cues
indicating the suspect’s attitude or readiness to resist. Officer may
perceive actions as threatening in nature)

Verbal Commands
Soft Empty Hand
Stun Device
OC Spray

Threaten OC Spray
Threaten Impact Weapon
Threaten Stun Device
Threaten Taser
Threaten use of K-9
Threaten OC Spray
Threaten Impact Weapon
Threaten Stun Device
Threaten Taser
Threaten use of K-9

Physical (Defensive resistance): (Physical acts of fleeing or escaping
suspect attempts to resist arrest without assaulting officer)

Verbal Commands
Soft Empty Hand
Stun Device
OC Spray
Taser
Hard Empty Hands
(Avoid head/neck)
Use of K-9 (felony)
Verbal Commands
Soft Empty Hand
Stun Device
OC Spray
Hard Empty Hands
Impact Weapons
Taser
Use of K-9
Extended Range Impact
Scorpion
Verbal Commands
Soft Empty Hand
Stun Device
OC Spray
Hard Empty Hands
Impact Weapons
Taser
Use of K-9
Extended Range Impact
Scorpion
Deadly Force
Verbal Commands
Soft Empty Hand
Stun Device
OC Spray
Hard Empty Hands
Impact Weapons
Taser
Use of K-9
Extended Range Imoact
Scorpion

Active Aggression: ( Physical acts of assault on an officer)

Aggravated Active Aggression: (Attempts to severely injure or kill
officer)

Attempt to Injure Self: (Subject who poses a threat only to
themselves and no other person)

Revised 05/20/09

Threaten OC Spray
Threaten Impact Weapon
Threaten Stun Device
Threaten Taser
Threaten use of K-9

Threaten OC Spray
Threaten Impact Weapon
Threaten Stun Device
Threaten Taser
Threaten use of K-9
Threaten Deadly Force

Threaten OC Spray
Threaten Impact Weapon
Threaten Stun Device
Threaten Taser
Threaten use of K-9
Threaten Deadly Force

Threaten OC Spray
Threaten Impact Weapon
Threaten Stun Device
Threaten Taser
Threaten use of K-9
Threaten Deadly Force

Glendale Police Department
General Order
USE OF FORCE
Date Issued
01-29-2000

Date Effective
01-02-2000

23.000
Review Date
02-15-2000

Page
17 of 21

23.009 Purpose
To ensure the proper investigation of any occurrence of the use of deadly force of such
gravity the integrity of the Department may be brought into question.
23.010 General Information/Shooting Incidents
A. A shooting incident shall be defined as the discharge of any firearm by a
department employee.
B. Exceptions include;
1.
2.
3.
4.

Off duty recreational purposes
Training
Dispatching of injured animals
Extinguishing of lights to obtain a tactical advantage at the direction of a
supervisor
5. Any reason deemed sufficient by a member of senior staff.
C. NOTE: Although the shooting out of lights will not be considered a shooting incident,
the on call duty officer should be notified prior to this being done if possible, or
immediately afterwards.
D. Non-injury accidental discharges not involving a police action and shootings
involving animals, will not normally be investigated by Internal Affairs, but will be
investigated by the employee’s supervisor. If an accidental discharge occurs while the
employee is performing a police function and a citizen or suspect is in close
proximity, the Investigations Bureau and Internal Affairs will conduct investigations.
E. The deployment of a Shotgun Launched Kinetic Impact Round, Scorpion (rubber
projectile), or JAYCOR (pepper ball) rounds will not normally be investigated as a
shooting, but instead will be considered a “use of force” incident.

23.011 Immediate Investigation of Officer Involved Shooting
A. Responsibility of the involved employee(s).
1. Determine the extent of injuries, if any, and render appropriate first aid.
2. Immediately notify the radio dispatcher of the shooting, advising of any injuries
and the need for emergency medical attention.

Revised 05/20/09

Glendale Police Department
General Order
USE OF FORCE
Date Issued
01-29-2000

Date Effective
01-02-2000

23.000
Review Date
02-15-2000

Page
18 of 21

B. The involved employee may be removed from the scene at the direction of the Shift
Commander or sergeant prior to the arrival of investigators if:
1.

It is believed the continued presence of the involved employee would cause a
hazardous situation (hostile crowd, etc.)
2. The employee/s requests to leave the area.
a. Assign a senior officer or supervisor to the shooting officer/s
b. Take employee to the nearest police facility
B. The involved employee should protect and secure the weapon used for examination
and submit the weapon only to the appropriate investigator.
C. The involved employee will not discuss the situation with anyone except supervisory
and investigative personnel.
D. Responsibilities of Radio Dispatcher
1. Immediately dispatch requested emergency medical aid.
2. Notify the on duty Shift Commander.
F. Responsibilities of Shift Commander
1. Respond immediately to the scene, assume command and gather preliminary
information.
2. Notify on call Duty Officer of the incident and the preliminary information. The
Duty Officer will in turn notify the Chief and Assistant Chief. The Duty Officer
will then respond to the scene for the purpose of providing pertinent information to
the involved officer. This information should include, but is not limited to, an
explanation of how the investigation(s) should proceed and the services available
through Victim Assistance.
3. Notify the Department Legal Advisor. Response of the Legal Advisor to the scene
will depend upon the particular circumstances, but is mandatory if injuries are
involved.
4. Notify the on call Investigations supervisor.
23.012 Criminal Investigation of Officer Involved Shooting
A. A Criminal Investigation is conducted to determine if the conduct of the involved
employee may be the basis for the filing of criminal charges against the employee
involved.
B. The on call Investigation Supervisor, upon notification of the shooting incident, will
notify an appropriate number of investigators and have them respond to the scene.

Revised 05/20/09

Glendale Police Department
General Order
USE OF FORCE
Date Issued
01-29-2000

Date Effective
01-02-2000

23.000
Review Date
02-15-2000

Page
19 of 21

C. The on call Investigation Supervisor will respond to the scene and assume command
of the scene.
D. All officer involved shootings will be investigated in accordance with the procedures
set forth in the directives concerning the responsibilities of Investigations regarding
Death Investigations.
E. All physical evidence, reports, photos and any other documents relating to an officer
involved shooting incident will be retained indefinitely, regardless of the disposition
of the criminal investigation. Such evidence reports etc. can only be disposed of after
written notification is received from the City Attorney.
23.013 Administrative Investigation of Officer Involved Shooting
A. An Administrative Investigation is conducted to determine if the conduct of the
involved employee is consistent with Departmental policy and procedures, and this
investigation will be subordinate to any criminal investigation.
B. The Assistant Chief will designate the Primary Administrative Investigator.
C. The Administrative Investigation will be conducted in accordance with the procedures
set forth in the directives concerning Police Internal Investigations/Class "A" (Alleged
Criminal Activity).
23.014 Shooting Review Board (1.3.7)
A. The Board is specifically charged with the responsibility of examining all related
policies and procedures governing the administrative handling of shooting incidents
and with making recommendations for changes necessary to the maintenance of
departmental accountability, control and integrity.
B. The Board shall serve in an advisory capacity to the Police Chief and, as such, shall
conduct timely inquiries into shooting incidents at their discretion. In addition, they
may examine all related support documentation surrounding a shooting incident to
determine if the incident was consistent with established department policy.
C. The Board shall consist of five voting members. The composition of the board
will consist of two members of the Senior Staff appointed by the Chief, two
members shall be citizens appointed by the City Manager and the final member
shall be a peer of the involved Officer chosen in accordance with the procedures
outlined in 22.160. Decisions of the board will be determined by the majority

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Glendale Police Department
General Order
USE OF FORCE
Date Issued
01-29-2000

Date Effective
01-02-2000

23.000
Review Date
02-15-2000

Page
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vote of the board members present. Other persons may attend board meetings at
the discretion of the Chief of Police.
D. The Legal Advisor shall serve with the Board for the purpose of providing legal
assistance and advice. The Legal Advisor may participate in the inquiry but shall not
be a member of the board.
E. The City Attorney or their designee may attend all shooting reviews for administrative
review by a non-police department employee. The City Attorney may participate in
the inquiry but shall not be a member of the Board. (1.3.7)
F. Departmental employees shall be subject to call before the board.
F. The Police Chief and members of the Board may participate in the inquiry and in the
examination of any person appearing before the Board.
G. The Defensive Tactics subject matter expert, or their designee and the Range Master
or their designee, at the request of a Professional Standards Unit supervisor, will
attend all use of force hearings in order to provide technical advice on training issues.
I. The Board shall keep minutes of its proceedings. Documentation, including the Board
J. Recommendations and minutes will be forwarded to the Police Chief for review.
23.015 Post Shooting Trauma, Critical or Traumatic Incident and Employee's
Welfare (1.3.8)
A. Administrative Leave
1. Any employee directly involved in a shooting, a critical or traumatic incident
resulting in serious physical injury or death will be placed on administrative leave
upon the completion of necessary reports. Being assigned to administrative leave
shall not be construed to imply or indicate the employee has acted improperly.
While on administrative leave, the employee will remain available for interviews
and may be recalled to full duty at any time.
2. Administrative leave resulting from an officer involved in a critical or traumatic
incident, or shooting, will not be less than 48 consecutive hours following the
incident.
3. Employees who are either shot at, or by another person, or who are present when
another employee is shot at, wounded or killed, will also be placed on
administrative leave.

Revised 05/20/09

Glendale Police Department
General Order
USE OF FORCE
Date Issued
01-29-2000

Date Effective
01-02-2000

23.000
Review Date
02-15-2000

Page
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B. Counseling
1. As soon as practical, any employee involved in a situation as described in section
23.008 of this directive will be advised of the availability of counseling through
Victim Assistance. It is preferable to have Victim Assistance personnel perform
this notification. If the employee desires to counsel with Victim Assistance
personnel, it shall be arranged as soon as possible so long as it does not
unnecessarily interfere with the investigation; for example, during an interview or
crime scene walk-through.
2. Any employee involved in a situation as described in section #23.008 of this
directive should counsel with Victim Assistance personnel prior to going off duty.
In addition, the employee may be required to attend counseling as arranged by
Victim Assistance.
3. If counseling is required, the first session should be as soon as possible after the
completion of necessary reports by and interviews with the involved officer.
4. Further required counseling will be determined by Victim Assistance although at
least one follow up session within 10 days is highly recommended.
5. The immediate family of employees involved in a shooting incident may also
attend counseling provided by Victim Assistance, with all requests for counseling
directed to Victim Assistance.

23.016 Departmental Use of Force Investigations (non-shooting)
a)

When injury or alleged injury to a suspect occurs: (1.3.6.d) (1.3.7)
1.
The supervisor will investigate the incident and document their
investigation in a departmental citizen complaint form. The report should
include the following documentation:
a. Photos of the alleged injury
b. Statements from officers, witnesses, and complaining party
c. Medical records or reports if possible
d.
NOI

B.

Allegation of excessive force/control.
1. The supervisor will investigate the incident and document their investigation in
a departmental citizen complaint form. The report should include the
following documentation:
a) Statements from officers, witnesses, and complaining party
b) NOI
c) Photos if applicable

Revised 05/20/09

Glendale Police Department
General Order
USE OF FORCE
Date Issued
01-29-2000

Date Effective
01-02-2000

23.000
Review Date
02-15-2000

Page
22 of 21

C.

Citizen complaint
1. The supervisor will investigate to determine if a violation of policy occurred or
if the suspect may have an injury.
2. If allegation of injury or injury is indicated, refer to 23.006.B.1
3. If allegation of excessive force/control, refer to 23.006.B.2
4. If violation or alleged violation of policy has occurred:
a. The supervisor will investigate the incident and document their
investigation in a departmental citizen complaint form. The report should
include the following documentation:
1. Statements from officers, witnesses, and complaining party
2. NOI
3. Photos if applicable

D.

Responsibilities of Shift Commander
1. When made aware of a potential use of force incident, designate a supervisor
who will conduct the initial investigation. Will be available for consultation
with the investigating supervisor.
2. Depending upon the seriousness of the incident as determined by the Shift
Commander, the on call duty officer may be contacted. The duty officer, after
consultation with the Shift Commander, may direct the Shift Commander to
place the involved employee on administrative leave.
3. The Shift Commander will ensure the documentation of all pertinent
information on a departmental investigation form.

E.

Responsibilities of the Assistant Chief
1. Review the departmental investigation submitted by the Shift Commander.
2. Determine one of the following:
a) The incident requires a separate and complete criminal investigation, and if
so, will direct such an investigation be done by General Investigation
personnel. Any such subsequent criminal investigation will be done in
accordance with the procedures set forth in Directive 22.110 Police
Internal Investigations.
b) The incident does not require a criminal investigation, but does require
some follow up, and therefore return the report to the affect employee’s
Bureau Commander or PSU for further investigation.
c) If the Assistant Chief finds the report complete and not in need of further
investigation, it will be forwarded to the Use of Force Board or returned to
the affected employees Bureau Commander for resolution.

23.017 Use of Force Review Board: (1.3.7)

Revised 05/20/09

Glendale Police Department
General Order
USE OF FORCE
Date Issued
01-29-2000

Date Effective
01-02-2000

23.000
Review Date
02-15-2000

Page
23 of 21

A. Use of Force Board
1. The Use of Force Board has the responsibility of examining all incidents of use of
force. The purpose of this examination is to determine if the use of force was
within established guidelines as set forth in existing policy, procedures, and
written directives.
2. The Use of Force Board will be governed by the same guidelines as the Shooting
Review Board.
23.018 Post Use of Force Trauma (1.3.7)
A. Any employee who seriously injures a person and who is not injured may be assigned
at home for the three days following the incident. The employee should be provided
with a pager to ensure availability to investigators. The employee will be assigned to
a non-enforcement position pending administrative review. The Police Chief may
return the employee to full duty, prior to the Use of Force Board, providing the
Officer’s Bureau Commander recommends it.
B. Any employee who kills a person and who is not injured, will be assigned at home for
the three days following the incident. The officer will be provided with a pager to
ensure availability to investigators. Upon returning to work, the employee will be
assigned to a non-enforcement position pending administrative review. The Police
Chief may return the employee to full duty, prior to the Use of Force Review Board,
upon recommendation of the employee's division commander.
C. Any other employee directly involved in a use of force incident resulting in death or
serious injury to any person may be reassigned to a non-enforcement position pending
administrative review of the incident. The Police Chief may return the employee to
full duty, prior to the Use of Force Review Board, upon recommendation of the
officer's Bureau Commander.
D. Any employee involved in a use of force incident that results in assignment at home
should submit a leave request.
E. The administrative review process will be considered complete upon the findings of
the Use of Force Review Board if the incident is found within policy or upon the
completion of the disciplinary review process if the incident is found to be out of
policy.

Revised 05/20/09

Glendale Police Department
General Order
USE OF FORCE
Date Issued
01-29-2000

Revised 05/20/09

Date Effective
01-02-2000

23.000
Review Date
02-15-2000

Page
24 of 21