Handcuffing Techniques -
There will be three methods of handcuffing using the same technique taught in this section.
1. Standing
2. Kneeling
3. Prone
The threat level will dictate the type that you chose. For example, if the subject who you are taking into custody presents a high risk, then you will most likely choose a prone or kneeling technique. If you determine that the subject who you are taking into custody does not present a high risk, then you may choose a standing technique.
Unless otherwise noted, if you grip the handcuffs in your right hand, then the first handcuff is applied to the subject’s right wrist. If you grip the handcuffs in your left hand, then the first handcuff is applied to the subject’s left wrist.
Speed Cuffing -
Compliant Subject -
1. Command the subject to face away from you.
2. Command the subject to place his/her hands out to the side thumbs down.
3. Command the subject to spread his/her feet and point the toes out.
(This will take away some of the subject’s balance)
4. Properly grip the handcuffs in your right hand.
5. Using a twist lock grip, FIRMLY GRASP the pinky side of the subject’s right hand with your left (reaction side) hand by placing your palm on the back (knuckles) of her/his hand.
6. Apply the palm down thumb side cuff. To the subject’s thumb side so the cheek plate is on the inside of the wrist.
7. Twists forward, simultaneously rotating your palm up and brings the subjects handcuffed wrist to the left wrist.
8. With your left hand firmly grasp the subject’s left hand using a handshake grip, trapping the thumb and handcuff this wrist with the pinkie side cuff.
Counters to Resistive Subjects -
If the subject resists as you’re making contact.
1. Execute an arm bar takedown.
2. Drive your knee into the side of the subject’s thigh.
3. Leg sweep.
4. Create distance and try another tactic.
If the first handcuff has been applied.
Apply and ignition twist, and transition to a vertical arm bar takedown.
Twist Lock Handcuffing from a Terry Frisk -
1. Ask the subject “do you mind if I check you for weapons
2. If the officer does not already have the subject in a rear twist lock or wrist lock.
3. As the subject says yes, then approach the subject from an arm hook as if you are going to use a takedown.
4. The officer then using his/her left hand grasps the back of the subject’s hand with his/her left palm twisting toward the subject.
5. The officer then pulls pressure on the subject’s pinkie finger as (s)he pulls the subject’s hand toward his/her armpit while bending the subject’s wrist back toward his/her forearm.
6. Command the subject to spread his/her feet, and with your left hand reinforce your control at the subject’s elbow or clavicle, bringing his/her balance rearward.
7. Perform a terry frisk
8. Go back to the original rear twist lock
9. Straighten the subject’s arm
10. Perform a compliant standing handcuffing if necessary.
High Risk Handcuffing -
(Same As Standing)
Kneeling Handcuffing Technique -
This technique is designed for a higher risk arrest procedure. In most cases a visual search of the subject is conducted while the officer is covering down from a position of deadly force cover, then through a series of commands, places the subject in the desired kneeling handcuffing position. (The subject is kneeling on the ground facing away from you.
The knees are spread, and the heels are together. The hands are spread horizontal to the ground, thumbs are pointed down so that you can observe the palms. The arms are then brought to the rear as far back as the subject can reach.
The subject’s weight is back on the heels). The approach will be made from either the right or left rear corner in relation to the subject, and the officer can apply the handcuffs either right or left-handed. (right-handed, from the right side, and left-handed from the left side).
The approach will be dictated by the positions of cover officers. If you are approaching the subject from the right rear corner, then the sequence is as follows.
1. With the handcuffs in the tactical grip, properly close the reactionary gap between you and the subject.
2. With your left hand, firmly grasp the subjects right hand using a Twist lock
3. Apply the palm down thumb side cuff.
4. Ignition twists forward, simultaneously rotating your palm up and brings the subjects handcuffed wrist to the left wrist.
5. With your left hand firmly grasp the subject’s left hand using a handshake grip, trapping the thumb and handcuff this wrist with the pinkie side cuff.
Prone Handcuffing -
Prone handcuffing techniques are used during high-risk arrest situations. High-risk vehicle stops, high-risk warrant service, building searches, or those individuals who have on previous contacts been armed. This technique will usually be accompanied by a visual search of the subject with officers covering from a position of deadly force cover. The desired positioning of the subject after he/she has been searched visually will be prone out flat on the stomach. The arms will be spread at 90 degrees. (Like an airplane), palms up and the thumbs pointed towards the feet. The feet will be spread wide with the toes pointed outward.
The officer’s approach will be from the head and from either the right or left front corner, depending upon where the cover officers are positioned. Officers will need to know how to approach from either direction to apply the handcuffs. A vertical twist lock, followed by a prone twist lock, will accompany this technique.
Officers need not to know how to apply the handcuffs either right or left-handed.
The Old Application -
When approaching from the right rear corner, the controlling and handcuffing sequence is as follows.
1. Properly close the reactionary gap between you and the subject.
2. Lower yourself by bending at the knees, maintaining good balance, and firmly grasping the subject’s right hand, hyper extend the arm so that its straight and vertical in relation to the subject.
3. While maintaining the vertical arm lock, kneel across the subject’s shoulder blades. (Do not kneel on the neck or head).
4. To apply the twist lock, use your right hand. Release the right hand from its weapon defense position, point the thumb downward, and slide it between the subject’s fingers. Rotate your hand to the knife edged side of the subject’s hand (pinky side).
*Instructors should be able to perform these techniques both right and left-handed.
Demonstrate activation of double lock mechanism.
5. While maintaining this grip, rotate the subjects palm up, and with your left hand bend the subject’s elbow at 90 degrees, and lower the subject’s hand to the small of his/her back. For added control, rotate the palm towards the feet, trap the arm with your leg.
6. With your left hand, retrieve your handcuffs and assume a tactical grip while holding the cuffs vertical.
7. Apply the thumb side cuff first in a direction towards either the subject’s feet or the subject’s head. (You may have to raise the subject’s wrist slightly away from the back to apply the cuff). Tighten the cuff by lowering it into the back.
8. Keeping the subject in a twist lock with your right hand, switch the tactical grip with your left hand, command the subject to place his/her other hand behind the back. (Avoid reaching for it. If the subject is resistive, simply request assistance from another officer if possible).
9. Grasp the subject’s thumb or forearm and pull it into the thumb side cuff. (Do not grasp the wrist).
Final note -
It is important that the officer maintain the four keys to defensive tactics during handcuffing procedures.
4. Balance
5. Speed
6. Technique
7. Surprise
The moment of contact during all arrest procedures are potentially very dangerous. Subsequently the sequence of physical movement during these procedures must be practiced to the point that they become second nature. Repetition of these movements is the best method of training.
Searching -
Proper searching techniques are essential in gaining and maintaining control and for the safety of everyone involved. Failing to conduct a proper search is one of the ten fatal errors. We will discuss and practice four types of searches of persons.
They are:
8. Visual search
9. Twist lock Terry frisk/ correctional cursory.
10. Standing; subject handcuffed
11. Prone; subject handcuffed
We have adopted searching techniques that will enable officers to be as safe as possible and enable us to locate and retrieve weapons, evidence and means of escape. To accomplish this goal, all searches of persons must both thorough and systematic.
Thorough Searches of persons must be done in such a way that all areas used as hiding places for weapons; evidence and means of escape have been checked. Overlapping areas to be searched is essential to not miss anything. Visually inspect the clothing such as pockets, cuffs, boots and waistband.
Systematic: We have adopted a system of establishing a starting point and finishing point so that we conduct every search in the same manner. This will aid you in knowing what areas have been searched and what areas still need searching.
To ensure a systematic system of searching, divide the body into 4 quadrants by drawing an imaginary line vertical down the midline of the body from head to toe.
Next, draw another imaginary line horizontal across the waistline.
Search the area where the subject’s hands have immediate access first, on all physical searches. (Waistline and rear pockets)
Next, search one quadrant at a time, starting at the head.
Move in a circular fashion, either clockwise or counterclockwise, around the entire body. For example, if you start at the upper right quadrant, search the upper right torso and head, including the mouth and ears. Then move to the right leg, then the left. Finish at the left torso and head. Overlap the quadrants being searched. Grab and twist the clothing. Inspect areas such as pockets and waistbands prior to placing your hands into these areas.
Protective gloves are recommended.
Visual Search -
A visual search, such as that which will be described, is usually conducted during high-risk arrests. Officers are always conducting visual searches during all contacts.
1. Command the subject to raise his/her hands high in the air.
2. Command the subject to slowly turn to either the right or the left.
3. When the subject is facing away from you, command him/her to reach back to the shirt collar, grab the shirt, and pull up. (The subject’s other hand remains in the air). This procedure will aid in the visual inspection of the waistline.
4. Command the subject to put both hands in the air and continue turning until he/she is facing you.
5. Command the subject to go down to one knee, then the other knee.
6. Command the subject to place both hands in front of him/her, palms up. Then place both hands on the ground.
7. Command the subject to leave both hands in place and walk backward on his/her knees until he/she is flat on their stomach.
9. Command the subject to place both hands to the side (like an airplane) and spread their feet, with the toes pointed outward.
10. Command the subject not to move. Prepare for the prone handcuffing technique by securing your weapon before approaching and entering the danger zone.
Make sure that you visually inspect all hiding places that their clothing allows you to. Look for bulges and shapes of weapons especially on the waistline, under the arms, back of the neck. When a weapon is identified, make sure that you communicate to your back up officers. After handcuffing the subject, he/she will be searched again.
Terry Frisk -
Standing Twist Lock Terry Frisk
1. Approach the subject from an escort position.
2. Ask the subject “do you mind if I check you for weapons
3. As the subject says yes, the officer brings his/her right hand from the elbow down to the lower part of the forearm near the wrist and the twists the arm toward the subject.
4. The officer then using his/her left hand grasp the subject’s palm with his/her left palm twisting toward the subject. (palm to palm)
5. The officer then puts pressure on the subject’s pinkie finger as (s)he pushes the subject’s hand toward his/her armpit while bending the subject’s wrist back toward his/her forearm.
CORRECTIONAL CURSORY SEARCH -
This type of search is less intrusive than that which is conducted for the purpose of taking a subject into custody. While we are still thorough and systematic, the search is limited to a pat down of the clothing only.
1. Command the subject to place his/her hands behind the back, knuckles together and interlock the fingers.
2. Command the subject to spread his/her feet and point the toes outward.
3. Firmly grasp 3 or 4 fingers and squeeze them together, while at the same time, lean the subject backward at the waist so that the head is past the heels, taking the subject off balance.
4. For added control, you may elect to secure the subject’s foot which is nearest to you, by firmly stepping on it. This will help to prevent the subject from kicking you.
5. Search the area where the hands have immediate access first, then conduct a quadrant search.
Standing 13-Point Search, Subject Handcuffed -
13 Point Search -
Every person who is taken into custody will be searched.
You must check your department policy to determine the procedure for opposite sex searches.
It is the recommendation of the USTJ/DT Committee that all persons taken into custody be searched thoroughly to maintain officer safety and for the safety of the public. Lastly, a thorough search of all persons taken into custody, will help prevent the subject from attempting assault or escape, subsequently reducing further escalating use of force incidents and maintaining control. Place the subject off balance.
1. After the officer has cuffed the subject the first and second points, he/she shall check is the high threat area and that is the front and back of the subject’s waist.
2. Place your left leg to the inside of the subject’s left thigh.
3. On a male subject the officer begins by lightly squeezing the hair on that side, on a female the officer removes any barrettes etc.
4. The officer checks the subject’s mouth by placing his/her hand between them.
5. The officer then searches the subject’s collar area.
6. The officer next slides his/her fingers down the subject’s sternum to the naval and repeats the same procedure down the subject’s spine.
7. As the officer inspects under the arm of the subject, he/she shall use a kneading action on the clothing of the subject rather than the skin.
8. When searching the belt area, the officer shall use his/her fingers on the inside and the thumb on the outside or vice versa.
9. When accepting a handcuffed subject from another officer, never assume that the subject has been searched. It is advisable to make sure for yourself. Subsequently, it is recommended that even if another officer has told you that an individual has been searched, you should always search that individual again prior to transport.
10. The officer checks the front and rear pockets including the areas around them (including the pelvic and tailbone areas) and then proceeds down the outside, and front of the leg to the ankle.
11. The ankle is almost as important as the initial high-risk area therefore the officer should inspect this area thoroughly.
Before the officer searches the inside of the subject’s leg, he/she shall switch their hand grip on the cuffs. This provides the officer with better balance.
12. When searching the crotch area, the officer shall use his/her forearm and press directly up. If, he/she notices a weapon he/she can pull back using his/her wrist and or push forward with his/her biceps. Do this quickly so the subject does not think that you are fondling him/her.
NOTE: If something is found, then search the area thoroughly. After checking the crotch, the officer switches his/her feet, so the right foot is in front.
13. Now the officer is set up to repeat the entire process on the other side. The officer can either start from the top which it is recommended, or he/she can start at the bottom and work his/her way up, except (1).
Prone 12-point Search, Subject Handcuffed -
During high-risk arrest situations in which a subject is taken into custody using the prone handcuffing technique, it is advisable to maintain the prone position to conduct the search. This position will be the most advantageous for officer safety.
The quadrant search is still utilized. In addition, the officer will search the area where hands have immediate access first. If you are starting the quadrant search on the subject’s right side, then the sequence is as follows:
1. Place your knee that is closest to the head on the ground. In this case it will be your right knee.
2. Roll the subject on their side, hooking their elbow over your left knee, and securing the subject with your left arm. Search the subject with your right hand. (You will be searching the upper left quadrant)
3. Place the subject back to the face down, prone position, and proceed to the lower right quadrant.
4. Keeping you right knee on the ground, place your right hand in the small of the subject’s back. Secure the right leg with your left foot. Search this quadrant with your left hand.
5. Move around the subject’s head, maintaining contact with your left hand, and proceed to the lower left quadrant.
6. Secure the subject’s left leg with you right foot, keeping you left knee on the ground. Search with your right hand.
7. Move to the upper right quadrant by placing your left knee on the ground next to the subject’s head. Roll the subject onto their side, hooking their right elbow onto your right knee and securing the subject with your right arm.
Search with your left hand.
Once the subject has been searched, you must then properly stand them up. This must be accomplished with as little stress to yourself as possible. The sequence is as follows:
8. Assist the subject to a seated position.
9. Command the subject to place his/her left foot under their right knee.
10. Place your right hand on the back of the subject’s neck, and your left hand in the crook of the subject’s left elbow.
11. Push the subject’s head in the direction of the left knee and instruct them to stand up.
12. Do not lift the subject, and risk injury to yourself.
There will be three methods of handcuffing using the same technique taught in this section.
1. Standing
2. Kneeling
3. Prone
The threat level will dictate the type that you chose. For example, if the subject who you are taking into custody presents a high risk, then you will most likely choose a prone or kneeling technique. If you determine that the subject who you are taking into custody does not present a high risk, then you may choose a standing technique.
Unless otherwise noted, if you grip the handcuffs in your right hand, then the first handcuff is applied to the subject’s right wrist. If you grip the handcuffs in your left hand, then the first handcuff is applied to the subject’s left wrist.
Speed Cuffing -
Compliant Subject -
1. Command the subject to face away from you.
2. Command the subject to place his/her hands out to the side thumbs down.
3. Command the subject to spread his/her feet and point the toes out.
(This will take away some of the subject’s balance)
4. Properly grip the handcuffs in your right hand.
5. Using a twist lock grip, FIRMLY GRASP the pinky side of the subject’s right hand with your left (reaction side) hand by placing your palm on the back (knuckles) of her/his hand.
6. Apply the palm down thumb side cuff. To the subject’s thumb side so the cheek plate is on the inside of the wrist.
7. Twists forward, simultaneously rotating your palm up and brings the subjects handcuffed wrist to the left wrist.
8. With your left hand firmly grasp the subject’s left hand using a handshake grip, trapping the thumb and handcuff this wrist with the pinkie side cuff.
Counters to Resistive Subjects -
If the subject resists as you’re making contact.
1. Execute an arm bar takedown.
2. Drive your knee into the side of the subject’s thigh.
3. Leg sweep.
4. Create distance and try another tactic.
If the first handcuff has been applied.
Apply and ignition twist, and transition to a vertical arm bar takedown.
Twist Lock Handcuffing from a Terry Frisk -
1. Ask the subject “do you mind if I check you for weapons
2. If the officer does not already have the subject in a rear twist lock or wrist lock.
3. As the subject says yes, then approach the subject from an arm hook as if you are going to use a takedown.
4. The officer then using his/her left hand grasps the back of the subject’s hand with his/her left palm twisting toward the subject.
5. The officer then pulls pressure on the subject’s pinkie finger as (s)he pulls the subject’s hand toward his/her armpit while bending the subject’s wrist back toward his/her forearm.
6. Command the subject to spread his/her feet, and with your left hand reinforce your control at the subject’s elbow or clavicle, bringing his/her balance rearward.
7. Perform a terry frisk
8. Go back to the original rear twist lock
9. Straighten the subject’s arm
10. Perform a compliant standing handcuffing if necessary.
High Risk Handcuffing -
(Same As Standing)
Kneeling Handcuffing Technique -
This technique is designed for a higher risk arrest procedure. In most cases a visual search of the subject is conducted while the officer is covering down from a position of deadly force cover, then through a series of commands, places the subject in the desired kneeling handcuffing position. (The subject is kneeling on the ground facing away from you.
The knees are spread, and the heels are together. The hands are spread horizontal to the ground, thumbs are pointed down so that you can observe the palms. The arms are then brought to the rear as far back as the subject can reach.
The subject’s weight is back on the heels). The approach will be made from either the right or left rear corner in relation to the subject, and the officer can apply the handcuffs either right or left-handed. (right-handed, from the right side, and left-handed from the left side).
The approach will be dictated by the positions of cover officers. If you are approaching the subject from the right rear corner, then the sequence is as follows.
1. With the handcuffs in the tactical grip, properly close the reactionary gap between you and the subject.
2. With your left hand, firmly grasp the subjects right hand using a Twist lock
3. Apply the palm down thumb side cuff.
4. Ignition twists forward, simultaneously rotating your palm up and brings the subjects handcuffed wrist to the left wrist.
5. With your left hand firmly grasp the subject’s left hand using a handshake grip, trapping the thumb and handcuff this wrist with the pinkie side cuff.
Prone Handcuffing -
Prone handcuffing techniques are used during high-risk arrest situations. High-risk vehicle stops, high-risk warrant service, building searches, or those individuals who have on previous contacts been armed. This technique will usually be accompanied by a visual search of the subject with officers covering from a position of deadly force cover. The desired positioning of the subject after he/she has been searched visually will be prone out flat on the stomach. The arms will be spread at 90 degrees. (Like an airplane), palms up and the thumbs pointed towards the feet. The feet will be spread wide with the toes pointed outward.
The officer’s approach will be from the head and from either the right or left front corner, depending upon where the cover officers are positioned. Officers will need to know how to approach from either direction to apply the handcuffs. A vertical twist lock, followed by a prone twist lock, will accompany this technique.
Officers need not to know how to apply the handcuffs either right or left-handed.
The Old Application -
When approaching from the right rear corner, the controlling and handcuffing sequence is as follows.
1. Properly close the reactionary gap between you and the subject.
2. Lower yourself by bending at the knees, maintaining good balance, and firmly grasping the subject’s right hand, hyper extend the arm so that its straight and vertical in relation to the subject.
3. While maintaining the vertical arm lock, kneel across the subject’s shoulder blades. (Do not kneel on the neck or head).
4. To apply the twist lock, use your right hand. Release the right hand from its weapon defense position, point the thumb downward, and slide it between the subject’s fingers. Rotate your hand to the knife edged side of the subject’s hand (pinky side).
*Instructors should be able to perform these techniques both right and left-handed.
Demonstrate activation of double lock mechanism.
5. While maintaining this grip, rotate the subjects palm up, and with your left hand bend the subject’s elbow at 90 degrees, and lower the subject’s hand to the small of his/her back. For added control, rotate the palm towards the feet, trap the arm with your leg.
6. With your left hand, retrieve your handcuffs and assume a tactical grip while holding the cuffs vertical.
7. Apply the thumb side cuff first in a direction towards either the subject’s feet or the subject’s head. (You may have to raise the subject’s wrist slightly away from the back to apply the cuff). Tighten the cuff by lowering it into the back.
8. Keeping the subject in a twist lock with your right hand, switch the tactical grip with your left hand, command the subject to place his/her other hand behind the back. (Avoid reaching for it. If the subject is resistive, simply request assistance from another officer if possible).
9. Grasp the subject’s thumb or forearm and pull it into the thumb side cuff. (Do not grasp the wrist).
Final note -
It is important that the officer maintain the four keys to defensive tactics during handcuffing procedures.
4. Balance
5. Speed
6. Technique
7. Surprise
The moment of contact during all arrest procedures are potentially very dangerous. Subsequently the sequence of physical movement during these procedures must be practiced to the point that they become second nature. Repetition of these movements is the best method of training.
Searching -
Proper searching techniques are essential in gaining and maintaining control and for the safety of everyone involved. Failing to conduct a proper search is one of the ten fatal errors. We will discuss and practice four types of searches of persons.
They are:
8. Visual search
9. Twist lock Terry frisk/ correctional cursory.
10. Standing; subject handcuffed
11. Prone; subject handcuffed
We have adopted searching techniques that will enable officers to be as safe as possible and enable us to locate and retrieve weapons, evidence and means of escape. To accomplish this goal, all searches of persons must both thorough and systematic.
Thorough Searches of persons must be done in such a way that all areas used as hiding places for weapons; evidence and means of escape have been checked. Overlapping areas to be searched is essential to not miss anything. Visually inspect the clothing such as pockets, cuffs, boots and waistband.
Systematic: We have adopted a system of establishing a starting point and finishing point so that we conduct every search in the same manner. This will aid you in knowing what areas have been searched and what areas still need searching.
To ensure a systematic system of searching, divide the body into 4 quadrants by drawing an imaginary line vertical down the midline of the body from head to toe.
Next, draw another imaginary line horizontal across the waistline.
Search the area where the subject’s hands have immediate access first, on all physical searches. (Waistline and rear pockets)
Next, search one quadrant at a time, starting at the head.
Move in a circular fashion, either clockwise or counterclockwise, around the entire body. For example, if you start at the upper right quadrant, search the upper right torso and head, including the mouth and ears. Then move to the right leg, then the left. Finish at the left torso and head. Overlap the quadrants being searched. Grab and twist the clothing. Inspect areas such as pockets and waistbands prior to placing your hands into these areas.
Protective gloves are recommended.
Visual Search -
A visual search, such as that which will be described, is usually conducted during high-risk arrests. Officers are always conducting visual searches during all contacts.
1. Command the subject to raise his/her hands high in the air.
2. Command the subject to slowly turn to either the right or the left.
3. When the subject is facing away from you, command him/her to reach back to the shirt collar, grab the shirt, and pull up. (The subject’s other hand remains in the air). This procedure will aid in the visual inspection of the waistline.
4. Command the subject to put both hands in the air and continue turning until he/she is facing you.
5. Command the subject to go down to one knee, then the other knee.
6. Command the subject to place both hands in front of him/her, palms up. Then place both hands on the ground.
7. Command the subject to leave both hands in place and walk backward on his/her knees until he/she is flat on their stomach.
9. Command the subject to place both hands to the side (like an airplane) and spread their feet, with the toes pointed outward.
10. Command the subject not to move. Prepare for the prone handcuffing technique by securing your weapon before approaching and entering the danger zone.
Make sure that you visually inspect all hiding places that their clothing allows you to. Look for bulges and shapes of weapons especially on the waistline, under the arms, back of the neck. When a weapon is identified, make sure that you communicate to your back up officers. After handcuffing the subject, he/she will be searched again.
Terry Frisk -
Standing Twist Lock Terry Frisk
1. Approach the subject from an escort position.
2. Ask the subject “do you mind if I check you for weapons
3. As the subject says yes, the officer brings his/her right hand from the elbow down to the lower part of the forearm near the wrist and the twists the arm toward the subject.
4. The officer then using his/her left hand grasp the subject’s palm with his/her left palm twisting toward the subject. (palm to palm)
5. The officer then puts pressure on the subject’s pinkie finger as (s)he pushes the subject’s hand toward his/her armpit while bending the subject’s wrist back toward his/her forearm.
CORRECTIONAL CURSORY SEARCH -
This type of search is less intrusive than that which is conducted for the purpose of taking a subject into custody. While we are still thorough and systematic, the search is limited to a pat down of the clothing only.
1. Command the subject to place his/her hands behind the back, knuckles together and interlock the fingers.
2. Command the subject to spread his/her feet and point the toes outward.
3. Firmly grasp 3 or 4 fingers and squeeze them together, while at the same time, lean the subject backward at the waist so that the head is past the heels, taking the subject off balance.
4. For added control, you may elect to secure the subject’s foot which is nearest to you, by firmly stepping on it. This will help to prevent the subject from kicking you.
5. Search the area where the hands have immediate access first, then conduct a quadrant search.
Standing 13-Point Search, Subject Handcuffed -
13 Point Search -
Every person who is taken into custody will be searched.
You must check your department policy to determine the procedure for opposite sex searches.
It is the recommendation of the USTJ/DT Committee that all persons taken into custody be searched thoroughly to maintain officer safety and for the safety of the public. Lastly, a thorough search of all persons taken into custody, will help prevent the subject from attempting assault or escape, subsequently reducing further escalating use of force incidents and maintaining control. Place the subject off balance.
1. After the officer has cuffed the subject the first and second points, he/she shall check is the high threat area and that is the front and back of the subject’s waist.
2. Place your left leg to the inside of the subject’s left thigh.
3. On a male subject the officer begins by lightly squeezing the hair on that side, on a female the officer removes any barrettes etc.
4. The officer checks the subject’s mouth by placing his/her hand between them.
5. The officer then searches the subject’s collar area.
6. The officer next slides his/her fingers down the subject’s sternum to the naval and repeats the same procedure down the subject’s spine.
7. As the officer inspects under the arm of the subject, he/she shall use a kneading action on the clothing of the subject rather than the skin.
8. When searching the belt area, the officer shall use his/her fingers on the inside and the thumb on the outside or vice versa.
9. When accepting a handcuffed subject from another officer, never assume that the subject has been searched. It is advisable to make sure for yourself. Subsequently, it is recommended that even if another officer has told you that an individual has been searched, you should always search that individual again prior to transport.
10. The officer checks the front and rear pockets including the areas around them (including the pelvic and tailbone areas) and then proceeds down the outside, and front of the leg to the ankle.
11. The ankle is almost as important as the initial high-risk area therefore the officer should inspect this area thoroughly.
Before the officer searches the inside of the subject’s leg, he/she shall switch their hand grip on the cuffs. This provides the officer with better balance.
12. When searching the crotch area, the officer shall use his/her forearm and press directly up. If, he/she notices a weapon he/she can pull back using his/her wrist and or push forward with his/her biceps. Do this quickly so the subject does not think that you are fondling him/her.
NOTE: If something is found, then search the area thoroughly. After checking the crotch, the officer switches his/her feet, so the right foot is in front.
13. Now the officer is set up to repeat the entire process on the other side. The officer can either start from the top which it is recommended, or he/she can start at the bottom and work his/her way up, except (1).
Prone 12-point Search, Subject Handcuffed -
During high-risk arrest situations in which a subject is taken into custody using the prone handcuffing technique, it is advisable to maintain the prone position to conduct the search. This position will be the most advantageous for officer safety.
The quadrant search is still utilized. In addition, the officer will search the area where hands have immediate access first. If you are starting the quadrant search on the subject’s right side, then the sequence is as follows:
1. Place your knee that is closest to the head on the ground. In this case it will be your right knee.
2. Roll the subject on their side, hooking their elbow over your left knee, and securing the subject with your left arm. Search the subject with your right hand. (You will be searching the upper left quadrant)
3. Place the subject back to the face down, prone position, and proceed to the lower right quadrant.
4. Keeping you right knee on the ground, place your right hand in the small of the subject’s back. Secure the right leg with your left foot. Search this quadrant with your left hand.
5. Move around the subject’s head, maintaining contact with your left hand, and proceed to the lower left quadrant.
6. Secure the subject’s left leg with you right foot, keeping you left knee on the ground. Search with your right hand.
7. Move to the upper right quadrant by placing your left knee on the ground next to the subject’s head. Roll the subject onto their side, hooking their right elbow onto your right knee and securing the subject with your right arm.
Search with your left hand.
Once the subject has been searched, you must then properly stand them up. This must be accomplished with as little stress to yourself as possible. The sequence is as follows:
8. Assist the subject to a seated position.
9. Command the subject to place his/her left foot under their right knee.
10. Place your right hand on the back of the subject’s neck, and your left hand in the crook of the subject’s left elbow.
11. Push the subject’s head in the direction of the left knee and instruct them to stand up.
12. Do not lift the subject, and risk injury to yourself.