Posted: 6/11/2004 1:39:44 PM EDT
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An earlier thread got me to wondering about handcuff procedure. This issue in question was an officer having been shot by a handcuffed prisoner and the discussion was about said officer cuffing in front or behind. I've never been cuffed, but if I ever were, it would have to be in front as an old injury prevents my arms from going behind my back without some incredible pain. So here's my question: would an officer listen to this up front and work with me, or could I just look forward to having my arms jerked around behind my back? LEOs, what say ye? |
| It mostly depends on the totality of the circumstances and how you are acting at the time. If you are a dangerous bad guy and are acting like one from start to finish, you will most likely be treated like one. There will be very little consideration for your personal comfort. Also, the Department may have specific policies and the Officer may have limited equipment. I carry two sets of cuffs and link them together for people with limited movement in their arms. Belly chains and leg irons are another option if they are available. |
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Might want to post this in the "Brothers of the Badge" forum also... In my experience, the other factors of the arrest would come into play also. Demeanor, nature of the crime, size and the like. My being "gamed" radar is pretty good as of late, and I would rely on that also. Either way, I would accomodate as far as I could without compromising safety. Cuffs always tho and that is non-negotiable. If the person resists/fights or runs and then complains of injury, no love. If it is apparent that you have a pre-existing injury and you have been co-operative, we'll work it out. Thats just me. In a stress situation (riot, violent crime,multiple subjects) usually all bets are off. Just don't get arrested  |
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Many LEAs will require behind the back, or waist chain if in front for transport. Cuffing in front with no chain is not much better than not cuffing at all. Like others have said, you demeanor will play a large role as well as the totality of the circumstances as to weather or not your arms get placed behind you or if you are able to convey your condition. You can always use 2 sets of cuffs to get your arms "almost" behind your back but with more comfort. There are always ways to restrain people safely. |
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I only handcuff behind the back. I also carry extra cuffs incase the person does have a problem with the back, shoulders or arms. The county jail will not accept a prisoner if they are handcuffed in front. A little story about that. A corporal I used to work with picked up a older guy for shoplifting two cans of soup. The guy couldn't afford the food so he stole it. The store wanted him arrested. While enroute to the jail the corporal handcuffed the guy in front. He didn't appear to be a threat to the corporal. The corporal stopped at McDonalds and bought the guy some burgers, fries and a drink. The guy ate them on the way to jail. He was dropped of at jail with no problems. The corporal ran his criminal history after he got back to the station. The "Harmless" old man was a two time convicted murder. He never handcuffed anyone in front again. Colt_SBR |