NCJ Number
93248
Journal
Journal of California Law Enforcement Volume: 16 Issue: 2 Dated: (1982) Pages: 111-118
Date Published
1982
Length
8 pages
Annotation
This article interprets data on law enforcement officers murdered in California during 1980 and 1981 and outlines tactical techniques to ensure officers' survival.
Abstract
The authors compiled their tabulations through interviews with surviving or back-up personnel and investigating homicide officers, and through examination of after-action reports. Learning points and tactical strategies have evolved from the authors' experience in teaching officer survival techniques. The data indicate that more than half of the murders occurred on weekends. The murdered officers represent every level of staff, although the victims are predominantly uniformed personnel in the lower ranks, ranging in age from 26 to 49 years. Attitudes among officers regarding the most dangerous days, months, and hours to work are traditional and correspond with the actual statistics for dangerous times. Danger exists throughout the entire spectrum of law enforcement organizations; most murders occurred in the presence of a partner. Physical fitness is important to maintain, because many suspects are young, strong, and streetwise. The wide variety of circumstances surrounding murders makes clear that an officer cannot relax in any situation. As two-thirds of the officers were victims of handgun crimes, officers should remember to always be aware of a suspect's hands. Two tables and seven charts follow the text. (Author summary modified)