NCJ Number
163836
Date Published
1988
Length
0 pages
Annotation
This training video for sheriff's deputies describes the risks of transporting prisoners, explains crucial initial actions in a hostage situation, and indicates tactics to avoid while being held hostage.
Abstract
The dramatization and instruction is intended primarily for deputies of the Los Angeles County Sheriff's Department, but may also have application to officers of other agencies that have the responsibility of transporting prisoners. The dramatization shows the securing of the prisoners for transport on a bus and the subsequent taking of a deputy as a hostage on the bus. One of the prisoners, in collusion with another prisoner, fakes a seizure to elicit the deputy's response and presence in the prisoners' area of the bus. The deputy is then taken hostage by a few of the prisoners in their effort to negotiate an escape. The narrator of the video comments on tactics that should and should not be pursued by the hostage in attempting to avoid injury or death and contribute to a constructive resolution of the situation. Some of the advice offered for those who may be taken hostage is to breathe deeply to reduce tension and not to attempt "heroic" efforts to combat the hostage takers either physically or verbally. Hostages should not intercede in any inmate conflicts or attempt to negotiate with the prisoners. The hostage should go along with reasonable demands that do not compromise security or safety. Further, the hostage should attempt to move away from the prisoners, but before the hostage makes any moves, he/she should seek the permission of the prisoner who appears to be in charge. Other advice is to stay away from windows and attempt to find cover by lying down, in the event of an attempted rescue. The hostage should remain calm and confident that the appropriate authorities will act to resolve the situation in a constructive manner.