G7.1.5 Vascular Neck Restrictions
Chapter: Chapter 07: Use of Force
Sub-Chapter: 7.1 - Use of Force
Effective Date: 06/21/2022
Revised Date: 06/18/2024
Rescinds: G7.1.5 – 6/21/2022
Purpose
To provide the Indiana University Police Department (IUPD) with guidance surrounding the use of vascular neck restrictions.
General Order
IUPD officers are prohibited from using vascular neck restrictions or any technique restricting the blood flow to and from the brain for the purpose of gaining control of a person unless deadly force would be considered necessary and objectively reasonable. Pursuant to Indiana Code 35-41-3-3, officers must give a warning, if feasible, to a person prior to using deadly force.
Definitions
Deadly Force – defined by Indiana Code 35-31.5-2-85 means force that creates a substantial risk of serious bodily injury.
Serious Bodily Injury – defined by Indiana Code 35-31.5-2-292 means bodily injury that creates a substantial risk of death or that causes serious permanent disfigurement, unconsciousness, extreme pain, permanent or protracted loss or impairment of the function of a bodily member or organ, or loss of a fetus.
Vascular Neck Restriction – a technique that applies pressure to the lateral portions of the neck to incapacitate individuals by restricting the flow of blood through the carotid arteries to and from the brain.
Vascular Neck Restrictions
Vascular neck restrictions, when not applied properly, may rise to the level of deadly force, due to initial positioning of the officer or person to which the technique is applied, or a change in position of either person involved.
Related Information
Indiana Code
- 35-31.5-2-85 Deadly force
- 35-31.5-2-292 Serious bodily injury
- 35-41-3-3 Use of force relating to arrest or escape
Indiana University Police Department
G7.1.2 LETB Statewide Policy on Deadly Force