NCJ Number
192987
Journal
Law and Order Volume: 50 Issue: 1 Dated: January 2002 Pages: 48-55
Date Published
2002
Length
8 pages
Annotation
This article provides information on a poll that was taken to assist in the development of a national policy for the selection, carry, and use of the patrol knife.
Abstract
A number of questions were asked of officers, supervisors and administrators from the ranks of FTO concerning their use of the patrol knife. These responses represent three-dozen city, county, State and Federal police agencies from the coast to coast. The following is a list of some of the questions and the composite answers of the interviewees. 1) Is there a policy on carrying, deploying and using a folding knife by employees in your department? The most common response was no. Most States use State guidelines referencing equipment and application. 2) Can any officer carry a combat folder? Are there any specifications or regulations regarding blade length or blade type? The most common answer was yes. Any officer may carry a combat folder on or off duty, and while not employed in a custody environment. 3) May any officer carry a fixed blade? Are there any specifications or regulations regarding blade length or blade type? The most common response was yes. Special team members, and those officers trained in the proper carry and deployment of such equipment, are permitted to carry a fixed blade on either a load-bearing vest in a secured manner or in any manner of attachment deemed safe. Without standards for the carry, deployment, and containment of knives by police officers, agency liability increases.