NCJ Number
174227
Journal
Law Enforcement Trainer Volume: 11 Issue: 5 Dated: November/December 1996 Pages: 8-11
Date Published
1996
Length
4 pages
Annotation
This second of a three-part series describes how plainclothes officers who are on-duty or off-duty can handle a confrontation with an aggressor through tactical disengagement, patterns of movement, and countering an attack.
Abstract
Tactical disengagement involves leaving the presence of the aggressor without engaging in a physical confrontation. The primary principle of tactical disengagement is to move laterally from in front of the aggressor and then exit at an angle. This prevents the aggressor from gaining an advantage through forward momentum. By moving laterally from in front of the aggressor, the aggressor must turn, look, and then attempt to pursue. The purpose of disengagement is to gain space, time, and distance, and therefore the opportunity to be in a position of advantage. Should tactical disengagement not be in order and the attack is in progress, the "patterns of movement" should be used. "Patterns of movement" involves getting out of the way of the attacker and the attack while gaining control of the attacker. Techniques for controlling the attacker while avoiding a head-on rush are described. Techniques for countering the attack are also described. In the event a confrontation occurs while an officer is off-duty and with family members. Suggestions are offered for what family members should do when a confrontation occurs. It is important that officers and their family members have a predetermined plan of action in the event of a confrontation with an aggressor.