G7.2.1 Less-Lethal Weapons
Chapter: Chapter 07: Use of Force
Sub-Chapter: 7.2 - Weapons Management
Effective Date: 01/31/2022
Revised Date: 01/31/2022
Rescinds: None
Purpose
To provide the Indiana University Police Department (IUPD) with a directive that specifies the types of less-lethal weapons authorized by the IUPD.
General Order (7.2.1)
Only sworn officers of the IUPD are authorized to carry and use batons, Oleoresin Capsicum (OC) spray, Electronic Control Weapons (ECWs) and pepper ball launchers. IUPD officers are not authorized to carry or use non-department issued less-lethal weapons. Officers will adhere to all general orders when using less-lethal weapons. Officers will deploy less-lethal weapons in a manner consistent with IUPD training.
Batons
The ASP brand expandable batons are the less-lethal impact devices authorized for use. Impact devices not issued by the IUPD are not authorized to be carried or used while on-duty.
The IUPD will issue batons to all sworn officers. Officers working uniformed assignments will have the option to carry their issued baton in the issued holster on their duty belt or load bearing vest, or otherwise available to them in the patrol vehicle.
OC Spray
Oleoresin Capsicum (OC) is a pepper-based spray intended to be a less-lethal means of controlling subjects. OC is an inflammatory agent, as well as an irritant, and is intended to be used as a low force means of obtaining control. OC spray or other chemical agent sprays not issued by the IUPD are not authorized to be carried or used while on-duty.
The IUPD will issue OC spray to all sworn officers. Officers working uniformed assignments will carry their issued OC dispenser and holster on their duty belt or load bearing vest.
Less-Lethal Impact Munitions
Less-lethal munitions are extended range impact projectiles designed to safely incapacitate potentially dangerous persons from a distance that minimizes the danger to officers and citizens. Projectiles are fired or launched for the purpose of encouraging compliance and to overcome resistance with a reduced likelihood of causing death or serious bodily injury.
Pepper ball launchers are the less-lethal impact munitions authorized for use. Less-lethal impact munition launchers not issued by the IUPD are not authorized to be carried or used on-duty.
Pepper ball launchers are optional equipment. Each division chief of police, in consultation with the superintendent for public safety and deputy superintendent for public safety, will determine if pepper ball launchers will be authorized for use by sworn officers who have received training in the use of these launchers.
Electronic Control Weapons
Electronic Control Weapons (ECWs) are less-lethal devices that use electricity to achieve neuro-muscular incapacitation.
Taser X26P and Taser X2 are the less-lethal ECWs authorized for use. ECWs not issued or assigned by the IUPD are not authorized to be carried or used while on-duty.
The IUPD will issue or assign an ECW to all sworn officers. Officers working uniformed assignments will carry their issued ECW and holster on their duty belt or load bearing vest on the opposite side of the officer’s handgun