1.00.020     USE OF FIREARMS - AUTHORIZED                      (CALEA 1.2.2, 1.3.2)

 

Deadly Force

 

A police officer is authorized and has the duty to prevent death or serious injury to self, a fellow officer, or a member of the public by utilizing whatever force necessary, including the use of firearms.

 

Firearms may be used to effect the arrest and/or prevent the escape of a person whom the officer has probable cause to believe has committed a dangerous felony when:

 

v     The officer has probable cause to believe that the person poses a significant threat of death or serious physical injury to the officer or to another, and

 

v     It s necessary to effect the arrest and/or prevent the escape, and

 

v     Any other available means to obtain custody would be ineffective

 

Firing Range

 

Officers may also discharge a firearm in the performance of a police duty at an approved firing range.

 

Destruction of Animals

 

An officer may discharge a firearm in the performance of a police duty to destroy an animal that is either:

 

v     Dangerous to the public safety; or

 

v     Grievously injured and obviously suffering pain

 

The on-duty field supervisor will respond to the scene and provide authorization before destroying any animal unless immediate action is required to prevent harm to the officer or a member of the public.