ARREST AND SEARCH TECHNIQUES STUDY ... - Learning for Life

the suspect cannot slip out of the handcuffs. Never leave handcuffs applied over the suspect'sclothing i.e., jacket sleeves, because it gives a false sense of tightness and the suspect may easilyslip out of the cuffs.Double LockAlways double lock the handcuffs before transporting a suspect. This is usually doneimmediately after tightening although during multiple arrests and other extenuatingcircumstances it may be better to temporally delay double locking the handcuffs for tacticalpurposes.SEARCHING SUSPECTSPrinciples of SearchingThe following are principles of doing a hands-on search of a suspect. Individual techniques willvary but these general principles should be followed.Position Of DisadvantageBased on the threat assessment the suspect must be in a position of disadvantage. This is done toallow for an easier search and to prevent the suspect from harming the officers. Positions ofdisadvantage may include standing, kneeling or prone positionsHolstered WeaponThe searching officer must not search with his firearm drawn although cover officers may have aweapon drawn under appropriate circumstances. If prior to the search the officer’s firearm wasout, such as during a weapon recovery, the firearm must be holstered securely prior to anysearching of the suspect.Ask About Sharp ObjectsAsk the suspect if he is carrying any needles or sharp objects before the search begins. Thisquestion is not a violation of Miranda regardless of whether the Miranda rights have been reador invoked. Visually inspect personal property before physically searching. Smaller bags andpurses may be carefully emptied and contents visually examined before being handled.Wear GlovesIf an officer who is not wearing gloves encounters soiled or possibly contaminated clothing, hemust wash or wipe his hands immediately and put on a pair of gloves before continuing thesearch. If it is necessary to handle soiled articles as the search continues, do so with extremecaution. If a hypodermic needle, knife or other sharp object is found, one option is to carefullyplace it in a puncture resistant container.One Searching OfficerOnly one officer should conduct the search of the suspect. This does not preclude a backupofficer from helping to restrain the suspect rather; if more than one person conducts the searchareas are often overlooked.Systematic and Thorough10