Safer Policing In America (mobile only)

Abstract:

About 160 law enforcement officers are killed in the line of duty in the United States every year and roughly 1,000 citizens killed by law enforcement.

U.S. citizens are demanding to see a reduction in both statistics. These numbers have the potential to create societal upheaval and even civil disorder as recently witnessed in certain states.

In a bid to reduce these tragic statistics this think tank has incepted a tool and a protocol that can be integrated in to police training.

The problem

The specific issue we aim to solve is one in which a police raid is carried out and the suspect is unsure whether the people calling “law enforcement open up!” Are indeed actually police officers. This causes suspects to hesitate and draw or not put down their firearm out of fear until identity can be confirmed. Unfortunately this can put law enforcement in an awkward position and tragically this hesitation can lead to a suspect becoming seen as an assailant and the loss of life of either citizen or Police officer.

The tool

A translucent coloured filter/gel (as used with theatre stage lighting), bearing the Department Of Justice insignia which can nestle inside the housing of the protruding exterior lip of the standard issue Police flashlight.

The protocol

Immediately as a police raid is conducted, the filter bearing flashlight will be shone through the perimeter window for law enforcement to use to identify themselves as genuine law enforcement at the same time the call “law enforcement open up!” Is given.

The coloured light will be clearly visible either on a curtain or blind, or an interior wall. The letter box can also be used to shine the coloured flashlight beam through.

What this does is act much like the Police badge carried by law enforcement by proving the identity of the police officers to the suspect. At this point the suspect (now reassured) fails to draw or decides to lay down his or her weapon and can put their open hands up.

Summary:

It is relatively difficult to produce such a detailed translucent coloured filter/gel as the one bearing the D.O.J’s insignia. This all but completely rules out forgery by malfeasant actor. Furthermore being in possession of such a filter would lead to a conviction for impersonating a Police officer and would therefore be contraband.

Policy recommendation:

The tool (filter) should be manufactured and distributed to all United States Police Departments and the protocol should be incorporated in to all law enforcement training. Undoubtedly these measures would save lives and satiate the concerns of citizens.

Author: David Ian Bennett

Published date: 17/10/2020

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