NCJ Number
77313
Date Published
1980
Length
0 pages
Annotation
This cassette covers six basic areas of information needed by the reserve law enforcement officer: personal conduct, relations with regular officers, arrests and use of force, courtroom testimony, firearms safety, and when to shoot.
Abstract
This information is intended as a supplement, rather than a substitute, for formal training and is designed for different types of reserve officers with varied duties. The conduct area discussed on the cassette includes the reserve officer's code of ethics, the handling of gratuities, public relations, and proper off-duty conduct. The reasons for possible difficulties in the reserve officer's relationship with regular law enforcement officers are given, and suggestions are made for improving these relationships. The elements of making a proper arrest are outlined, including the statement of arrest, the statement of the reason for the arrest, the assertion of the authority to arrest, and the proper use of force to restrain the offender. Additional arrest-related topics discussed briefly on the cassette include the rights of the offender, the reasons why an officer might obtain a search warrant, civil liability, and false arrest insurance. The subject of court testimony includes answering the subpoena, preparing for court, appearing in court, taking the oath, and answering both prosecuting and defense attorneys. The area of firearms information emphasizes the importance of obtaining minimum training before formal training begins, accident prevention, the dangers of tragic death and of civil and criminal liability penalties for reserve officers who misuse their weapons, and the legal requirements for the use of weapons. These requirements include that of self-defense and the arrest of a fleeing felon under certain conditions.