Ledyard Police Department

General Order 16-04
DATE: April 4, 2016
Replaces: Ledyard Police Operations Manual Chapter 8
USE OF FORCE POLICY
1. Purpose
To establish the policies and procedures that govern the use of force by authorized personnel of the Ledyard
Police Department
2. Discussion
A police officer’s decision to use force in response to resistance, violence, or the threat of violence is a critical
decision with many factors to be considered. The officer must decide when to use force, which application is
appropriate, and how much force is the minimum amount required to accomplish a lawful objective. The
department has a responsibility to train officers in the proper use of force and to review each application of force
by a member of the Ledyard Police Department.
Ledyard Police Officers derive their authority to use force from Sections 53a-18, 53a-19, and 53a-22 of the
Connecticut General Statutes. The legal standard for the reasonable use of force by officers is derived from the
United States Supreme Court case Graham v Connor, 490 U.S. 386 (1989). The decision states, in part, “The
reasonableness of a particular use of force must be judged from the perspective of a reasonable officer on the
scene, rather than with the 20/20 vision of hindsight. The calculus of reasonableness must embody allowance for
the fact that police officers are often forced to make split- second judgments—in circumstances that are tense,
uncertain, and rapidly evolving—about the amount of force that is necessary in a particular situation.” Factors
relevant to the determination of reasonableness include the severity of the crime the officer believes the suspect
has committed or is committing, whether the suspect posed an immediate threat to the safety of officers and the
public, and whether the suspect has actively resisted arrest or attempted escape, and any other fact or
circumstance which reasonably bears upon the decision to use force. This standard of “objective reasonableness”
is the standard the department uses in examining a particular use of force by a Ledyard Police Officer.
3. Definitions
a. Active Resistance. Any physical act, or failure to act, undertaken by a subject against an officer, that
could reasonably interfere with or defeat a lawful attempt by the officer to gain physical control of a
subject.
b.
Deadly Force. Physical force, which can be reasonably expected to cause death or serious physical injury
ISSR 1.1.2
of a human being.
c. Less Lethal Force. That force which has the potential to cause bodily harm (physical injury) or pain.
d.
e. Reasonable Physical Force. The degree or amount of force which is necessary to affect an arrest, prevent
escape or overcome force being used against the officer or other person.
f. Reasonably Believes. Denotes the fact that the actor believes based on the facts or circumstances a
cautious and prudent officer would make a similar decision. The elements of reasonable belief include a
combination of an officer’s own training and experiences as well as circumstances which exist, or are
known to the officer at the time of the incident.
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g. Imminent. Close to or at the point of happening.
h. Physical Injury. Bodily harm or hurt, which has the potential to physically disfigure, impair health or
cause temporary impairment of a bodily part. This excludes mental distress, fright or emotional
disturbance.
i. Serious Physical Injury. Physical injury, which creates a substantial risk of death, or which causes serious
disfigurement, serious impairment of health, or serious impairment or loss of function of any bodily
organ.
j. Death. The cessation of life; permanent cessation of all vital functions and signs.
k. Officers. Sworn members of the Ledyard Police Department
l. De-Escalation. A decrease in the level of force used by officers in an incident in direct response to a
decrease in the level of resistance.

ISSR
1.1.7

4. Policy
a. Police Officers are permitted to use reasonable force in the performance of their duties consistent with
Connecticut General Statutes and federal and state case law.
b. Levels of force include:
i. Deadly force, whether or not it results in death, and
ii. Less lethal force
c. Use of Force Consists Of:
i. Deadly Physical Force, Use of Less Lethal Weapons (i.e. CEW, OC Spray, Baton, Bean Bag
Round), Strikes Delivered By Hand, Arm, Leg, Foot or by any other means at the officer’s
disposal based upon the officer’s training and experience.
ii. In situations where a firearm is pointed at a subject as a control measure, the circumstances will
be documented in a Use of Force report and in the officer’s incident report, reviewed by a
supervisor and forwarded to the Chief of Police through the chain of command.
d. The following does not constitute use of force:
i. The mere presence of officers at an incident or scene
ii. Verbal commands without an implied or implemented use of force with a weapon
iii. Training
iv. Actions of physical control that do not result in injury or complaint of pain by either party. Such
actions shall be reported in the officer’s incident report.
v. Unholstering a weapon unless directed at a person as a control measure
vi. Non-resistant handcuffing of a subject

ISSR 1.1.2
ISSR 1.1.7

ISSR 1.1.3a

e. Use of Deadly Physical Force
i. Officers will only use the force necessary to accomplish lawful objectives.
ii. Officers will be familiar with the statutes pertaining to the use of deadly physical force and will
ensure that any use of deadly physical force meets the objective reasonableness standard test.
iii. Sworn personnel are authorized to use Deadly Physical Force in order to:
1. Defend the officer or third person from what the officer reasonably believes to be the use
or imminent use of deadly force.
2. Effect an arrest or prevent the escape from custody of a person whom the officer
reasonably believes has committed or attempted to commit a felony, which involved the
infliction or threatened infliction of serious physical injury,
3. Where practical, the officer has given warning of his/her intent to use deadly force, and
4. The officer reasonably believes that the person still poses a significant threat to the
officer or a third person through the use of deadly force to the officer or a third person.
iv. Sworn personnel are not permitted to use deadly force under the following circumstances:
1. THE USE OF WARNING SHOTS IS STRICTLY PROHIBITED.
2. Discharging a firearm at or from a moving vehicle, except:
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a. As the ultimate measure of self-defense,
b. In defense of another when a suspect is using deadly force from a vehicle by any
means including the vehicle itself.
v. Deadly Force Incident Investigations and Reporting
1. Ledyard Police Department personnel involved in an officer-involved deadly force
incident shall complete comprehensive reports on all their activities relative to the
investigation. Upon request, all Ledyard Police Department reports related to the deadly
force incident shall be made available to the State’s Attorney Office and its designated
investigators
2. An Administrative investigation shall be launched whenever an officer uses deadly force
upon another person.
vi. Use of Force Incident Press Release
1. Only the Chief of Police or designee may speak for the department regarding officerinvolved use of force incidents.
2. When an officer has used deadly force upon another person and such person has died or
is likely to die, the designated State’s Attorney’s Office will review all Ledyard Police
Department press releases related to the incident.
f.

Use of Force – Forceful Terminations of Motor Vehicle Pursuits
See General Order 16-03 regarding Vehicle Pursuit

g. Use of Force Analysis
i. On an annual basis in January, the Sergeant assigned to Use of Force Training will conduct an
analysis of all use of force incidents by personnel of the Ledyard Police Department.
ii. The use of force analysis shall be used to identify patterns or trends that may indicate training
needs and/or policy modifications.
iii. A copy of the use of force analysis will be forwarded to the Chief of Police and the Lieutenant.

ISSR 1.1.3c

h. Rendering Medical Aid
i. When sworn personnel use deadly or less lethal force upon a subject and an injury is observed, or
the subject complains of discomfort, pain, or injury, sworn personnel shall ensure that the
appropriate medical aid is rendered.
ii. Medical aid will only be rendered after the subject’s ability to implement less lethal or deadly
force has been neutralized and it is safe to render medical aid.
iii. All injury and medical information will be clearly documented in an incident report.
iv. Medical aid may be provided through, but not limited to, the following:
1. Officer initiated
2. EMT, Paramedic, and/or LVES personnel
3. Hospital

5. Procedures
a. Personnel will keep in mind that the use of deadly force has the potential to present a threat to the
community.
b. Post Use of Deadly Force Investigation
i. Officer-involved deadly force investigations shall include, but not be limited to, the following
deadly force incidents:
1. The use of deadly force by an officer upon another person, whether or not the force
results in death or injury, and/or
2. The unintentional discharge of a firearm by an officer
ii. Investigative Roles and Responsibilities
1. The first uninvolved officers on the scene will:
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a. Render medical aid to the injured,
b. Secure, control and preserve the scene without the removal or relocation of
evidentiary material including motor vehicles. Once the scene is “secure” the
following procedures shall be carried out:
i. Establish an inner and outer perimeter to protect the incident scene from
unauthorized entry and contamination,
ii. Implement a written log to keep track of all authorized persons entering or
leaving the inner perimeter. The log shall also document the dates and
times authorized persons entered and left the inner perimeter.
iii. Locate and take the names of witnesses and potential witnesses as well as
note registration numbers of involved motor vehicles.
iv. Conduct interviews when practical
v. Perform or assist with other appropriate investigative activities to the
extent that the passage of time would inhibit such activities, and
vi. Complete a comprehensive report on all activities performed in relation to
the post use of deadly force investigation.
2. First Uninvolved Supervisor on scene:
a. As soon as possible after the deadly force incident, the duty Sergeant, if not
directly associated with the incident, shall make a preliminary inquiry to
determine the scope and seriousness of the incident. Based on the results of this
inquiry, the supervisor will provide notification to the persons listed below.
Dispatch will be advised to make an entry in IMC indicating the time of each
notification. The supervisor will notify the:
i. Chief of Police. In the absence of the Chief of Police, the Lieutenant or
designee will be responsible for notifying the Mayor of the Ledyard,
or designee, as soon as practical (if possible before news of the
incident is released or reported by the media).
ii. State’s Attorney Officer (Superior Court, Part A, New London,
Connecticut). The State’s Attorney’s Office shall be notified
immediately when an officer has used deadly force upon another
person and such person dies or is likely to die,
iii. Ledyard Police Detective Division
iv. Ledyard Police Department EAP contact person.
v. Police Union Representative,
vi. Chief State’s Attorney’s Office (860) 258-5800 who in turn will assign an
appropriate State’s Attorney and notify the Connecticut State Police,
1. Other police agencies having a direct interest in the subject
officer(s) involved in the deadly force incident (when
applicable), and/or
2. Police Chaplain (when applicable).
vii. The uninvolved Sergeant shall assume command of the incident scene,
ensuring scene security, control, and preservation. The incident scene
must be preserved without the removal or relocation of evidence,
including motor vehicles, unless failure to do so would detract from
the evidentiary value.
viii. The Sergeant shall safely remove the involved officer(s) from the incident
scene as soon as possible.
ix. The Sergeant shall ensure that another Ledyard Police Department
member remains with the officer at all times,
x. The Sergeant shall secure the involved officer’s implement of deadly
force and all other equipment and clothing worn at the time of the incident
as evidence as soon as practical. These items shall not be altered unless
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xi.
xii.

xiii.

xiv.

April 4, 2016

such is required for the safety of the officer securing said equipment.
However, it is imperative that if a duty weapon was used, that the weapon
is not altered in any way (i.e. bullet(s), casing, ammo magazine not be
removed from the weapon).
The department shall issue a replacement weapon to the officer as soon as
practical, when an officer uses deadly force upon another person.
Unless otherwise stipulated in the officer’s emergency contact information
sheet, a ranking member of the Ledyard Police Department and the
Ledyard Police Chaplain (or member of the clergy) shall be assigned the
task of notifying the officer’s and/or other person’s next of kin. Next of
kin shall be informed about the availability of resources and services
to assist them,
Interview involved personnel separately and as soon as possible. When
an officer has used deadly force upon another person and such person
dies or is likely to die, the State’s Attorney Office shall be in charge of
the officer interview process, and
The Sergeant shall complete a comprehensive report on all activities
performed in relation to the post lethal force investigation.

3. Uninvolved Detective Division Personnel on the Scene
a. Unless directed otherwise by the Chief or State’s Attorney the Ledyard Police
Department will assume command of the use of force investigation when the
deadly force incident does not involve the death or likely death of another person.
The State’s Attorney Office shall direct all investigative activities when an
officer uses deadly force upon another person and such person dies or is
likely to die. In this situation, the State’s Attorney Office shall decide
whether or not to use Ledyard Police Department Detective Division to aid
in investigating the deadly force incident.
b. Uninvolved Ledyard Police Department Detectives shall be available to conduct
or assist with officer-involved deadly force incident investigative tasks. This
includes, but is not limited to, the following:
i. Interviewing witnesses,
ii. Processing the incident scene:
1. Collecting and securing evidence
2. Photographing and diagramming the scene.
iii. Identifying and locating the suspects,
iv. Conducting follow-up interviews,
v. Preparing and serving search and seizure warrants,
vi. Preparing and serving arrest warrants,
vii. Notifying the State’s Attorney Office (when applicable)
viii. Notifying the Connecticut State Police Major Crime Squad (when
applicable).
ix. Performing any other tasks necessary to complete the investigation.
x. Completing a comprehensive report on all activities performed in relation
to the post-deadly force investigation.
4. State’s Attorney Office
a. Once notification has been made, a representative of the State’s Attorney Office
shall respond to the incident scene within a timely fashion. Per Connecticut
General Statute 51-227a, the State’s Attorney Office shall be charged with
directing the lethal force investigation and all associated investigative
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activities, when an officer has used deadly force upon a person and said
person has died or is likely to die.
b. Upon the arrival of a representative from the State’s Attorney Office, the
representative shall discuss the incident with the supervisor who is in charge of
the incident scene.
c. The State’s Attorney Office shall be responsible for requesting appropriate law
enforcement agency assistance (i.e., CSP Major Crime Squad). This assistance
shall be used in determining the circumstances of the deadly force incident. The
State’s Attorney Office shall:
i. Determine what agency or agencies shall be responsible for processing the
incident scene,
ii. Determine what agency or agencies shall be responsible for analyzing the
evidence, and, if necessary,
iii. Determine what agency or agencies shall be responsible for reconstructing
the event and scene.
c. Deadly Force Incidents Without Death or Serious Injury
i. In the event a deadly force incident does not involve death or serious injury, the first uninvolved
Supervisor shall notify the:
1. Chief of Police,
2. Ledyard Police Lieutenant
3. Detective Division
4. Police Union Representative, and
5. Ledyard Police Department EAP contact person.
ii. The responsibility for the investigation shall rest with a supervisor higher in rank than that of the
subject employee. The Chief of Police or his/her designee shall designate the investigating
supervisor. If applicable, the supervisor may employ the services of Detective Division personnel
to assist with the investigation.
iii. A comprehensive report shall be generated on deadly force incidents that do not involve death or
injury.

ISSR 1.1.5

ISSR 1.1.5

d. Advisements
Any employee of the Ledyard Police Department whose actions or use of deadly force results in death or
serious injury shall be advised of the following:
i. The employee shall be advised of his/her rights with regards to both a criminal and internal
investigation,
ii. The employee shall be advised that a criminal investigation shall be conducted,
iii. The employee shall be advised that there shall be a separate Administrative Review investigation,
iv. The employee shall be advised about the role the State’s Attorney Office shall play with regards
to an employee’s actions and/or use of deadly force,
v. The employee shall be advised that he/she shall be temporarily reassigned to perform
administrative duties or work in another police related capacity throughout the duration of the
investigation. The length of the reassignment will be determined by facts of the investigation and
the employee’s desire to return to duty.
vi. The employee shall be advised that he/she may be the subject of a supervisory referral to the
department’s Employee Assistance Program.
e. Deadly Force Incident Reporting
When an officer has used deadly force upon another person and said person dies or is likely to die, in
addition to the reporting requirements detailed later in this policy, the State’s Attorney Office shall
investigate the incident and file a report with the Chief State’s Attorney Office. The Chief State Attorney
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shall forward a copy of the State Attorney’s report to the Chief of Police. A copy of this report shall be
maintained with all other reports related to the deadly force incident.
1.1.4a

i. Use of Force training will be conducted annually for all sworn officers by a POSTC certified
range instructor(s) at the annual pistol range qualification.
ii. Every other year, officers shall receive training on the requirements and processes involved in the
investigation of an officer involved deadly force incident at semi-annual firearms qualification.
f.

ISSR1.1.3b

Less Lethal Force
i. An officer may use less lethal force upon another person when and to the extent that he/she
reasonably believes it necessary to:
1. Effect an arrest or prevent the escape from custody of a person whom he/she reasonably
believes to have committed an offense,
2. Defend him/herself or a third person from the imminent use of less lethal force while
effecting or attempting to effect an arrest or while preventing or attempting to prevent an
escape,
3. Maintain order or prisoners, or
4. Restrain persons who are mentally ill and dangerous to themselves or others, or are
gravely disabled and in need of immediate care and treatment.
ii. Less lethal force may include:
1. Less lethal weapons such as CEW, OC spray or baton,
2. Hard strikes delivered by hand, arm, leg, or foot, and/or
3. Any other means at the officer’s disposal based upon the officer’s training and
experience.
iii. Less Lethal Kinetic Energy Impact Projectiles are flexible or non-flexible projectiles, which are
intended to incapacitate a subject with less potential for causing death or serious physical injury
when compared to conventional projectiles.
1. Deployment Considerations
a. The use of kinetic energy impact projectiles is to be considered a level of
DEADLY FORCE when intentionally deployed to strike a location recognized as
likely to cause death or serious physical injury, e.g., the head, neck/throat, and to
a lesser degree, the chest or solar plexus.
b. The only kinetic energy impact projectile authorized for use by the Ledyard
Police Department is the 12 gauge “ALS 1212T Triton Bean Bag” round.
c. The deployment of a less-lethal impact projectile must be authorized by the
supervising officer at the incident scene, unless exigent circumstances direct
otherwise.
iv. Deployment
1. Less-Lethal projectiles will be delivered to a subject target based on the circumstances,
established safety priorities, and the level of force authorized.
2. The impact weapon training chart (Exhibit “A”) is the recognized model for determining
contact areas for kinetic energy impact weapons based on potential for injury.
a. Green – these areas will be considered when incapacitation is necessary and the
minimal potential for injury is the appropriate response.
b. Yellow / Red – these areas will be considered when an escalation of force above
green (areas) is necessary and appropriate, acknowledging an increase in
potential for death or serious physical injury.
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c. Head / Neck / Groin – Intentional impacts to these areas will be avoided unless
the use of deadly force is necessary.
v. Deployment Techniques
1. The approved shotgun is a Remington Model 870 twelve gauge shotgun with an orange
stock and fore grip. It will be carried, unloaded, with less-lethal kinetic projectile “ALS
1212T Bean Bag” ammunition in an ammunition holder approved by the department. No
lethal ammunition shall be carried in or on the shotgun designated for the delivery of
less-lethal projectiles, or in its storage case.
2. Less-lethal kinetic energy impact weapons should not be used without consideration of a
cover officer being present.
3. Officers shall announce the intended use of less-lethal impact weapons to officers at the
incident scene to prevent the accidental discharge of lethal ammunition, i.e. reactive
firing.
ISSR 1.1.3c

ISSR 1.1.3d
ISSR 1.1.1

ISSR 1.1.4
ISSR 1.1.1a

ISSR 1.1.1a

vi. Handling of Injured Subjects
1. Subjects struck by a less-lethal projectile shall be attended to by the involved officer(s)
following their medical training Appropriate transport to a medical facility for
examination will also be assured by the involved officer(s) and/or supervisor.
2. An investigation will be conducted into any situation involving the firing of a less-lethal
projectile at a subject.
3. Photographs of the injuries will be taken whenever feasible.
vii. Notification and Review
1. The Chief of Police will be immediately notified whenever the less-lethal kinetic impact
projectile weapon is deployed. The depth of the investigation will be decided by the
Chief of Police or his designee and will be based on the totality of the circumstances and
applicable laws.
2. The operational use of a kinetic energy impact projectile will be documented in a written
report by the deploying officer to include a Use of Force Report. Both reports will be
submitted to the Chief of Police through the chain of command for proper review and
filing.
viii. Training
1. Training in the use of extended range kinetic energy impact projectiles weapon will
consist of the approved department end-user program and bi-annual re-certification.
Officers must demonstrate proficiency with the weapon in compliance with POSTC
requirements. Failure to obtain recertification will result in the officer being denied
permission to carry the kinetic energy impact projectile until such time as training has
been provided and demonstration of proficiency has been documented.
ix. Conducted Electrical Weapon
The following policy is implemented as per the requirements of PA-14-149 concerning the use of
electronic defense weapons by police officers. As such, this policy deals with the use of the
Department issued Conducted Electrical Weapon (Model X26/X26P TASER®) CEW. Per CGS
53a-22, police officers are justified in using physical force when and to the extent that he or she
reasonably believes such to be necessary to: (1) Effect an arrest or prevent the escape from
custody of a person whom he or she reasonably believes to have committed an offense, unless he
or she knows that the arrest or custody is unauthorized; or (2) defend himself or herself or a third
person from the use or imminent use of physical force while effecting or attempting to effect an
arrest or while preventing or attempting to prevent an escape.
Officers are specifically granted the legal authority to carry weapons under C.G.S. 53-206 “while
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engaged in the pursuit of such officer’s official duties.”

DEFINITIONS:
CONDUCTED ELECTRICAL WEAPON (CEW): The CEW is a less than lethal weapon
designed to disrupt a subject’s central nervous system by deploying battery-powered electrical
energy sufficient to cause uncontrolled muscle contractions and override voluntary motor
responses.
PHYSICAL FORCE: Per CGS 53a-22, police officers are justified in using physical force when
and to the extent that he or she reasonably believes such to be necessary to: (1) Effect an arrest or
prevent the escape from custody of a person whom he or she reasonably believes to have
committed an offense, unless he or she knows that the arrest or custody is unauthorized; or (2)
defend himself or herself or a third person from the use or imminent use of physical force while
effecting or attempting to effect an arrest or while preventing or attempting to prevent an escape.
LESS-THAN-LETHAL FORCE: A use of force which is not likely to cause death or serious
physical injury.
ACTIVE RESISTANCE: Any physical act, or failure to act, undertaken by a subject, against an
officer, that could reasonably interfere with or defeat a lawful attempt by the officer to gain
physical control of the subject.
PASSIVE RESISTANCE: The mere failure or refusal to cooperate with the lawful directions of a
police officer by one or more unarmed, non-violent persons, such as in the case of an act of civil
disobedience or a non-violent handcuffed prisoner.
DEPLOYMENT: Does not include the mere removal of the CEW from the holster, but does
include any use of a CEW against any person, including the illumination of the laser sight onto an
individual.
Officers will be trained in and authorized to carry and deploy the Department issue Electronic
Defense Weapon (Model X26/X26P TASER®) after demonstrating proficiency with the device,
in compliance with POSTC requirements.
a. The use of the CEW will be limited to the degree of reasonable force that is
necessary to accomplish lawful objectives, ie provide protection for the officer,
the subject, third parties and/or to effect an arrest.
b. Only officers who have successfully completed annual departmental CEW
training and taken a written exam achieving a score of 80% from an authorized
CEW instructor shall be permitted to carry/utilize a CEW.
c. The device shall be carried in accordance with the manufacturer’s
recommendations and Department training. The device shall be carried in an
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approved holster on the side of the body opposite the service handgun if it is to
be worn in a waist holster or a thigh holster. Officers not assigned to uniformed
patrol may be authorized to utilize other Department-approved holsters and carry
the device consistent with Department training and the requirement as set out in
this paragraph.
d. The CEW is not a replacement for the firearm and should not be used without
firearm backup in those incidents where there is a potential threat towards the
officer(s) or third parties.
i. Prior to using the CEW, where practical, a verbal warning of its
impending use should be given to warn other officers of its impending
discharge.
ii. When applicable, the verbal warning of “TASER – TASER” shall be
given in a loud, clear, commanding voice.
e. As in all uses of force, certain individuals may be more susceptible to injury. The
CEW is not to be used on the following persons:
i. Women known to be pregnant as muscle contractions and/or a fall may
cause medical complications
ii. The infirm
iii. The elderly (unless extraordinary circumstances exist to prevent use of
deadly force)
iv. Small children
v. Persons of small stature irrespective of age
vi. Persons with a low Body-Mass Index (BMI) (severely underweight)
vii. Persons equipped with a pacemaker
viii. Persons in obvious ill health
f.

The CEW is not to be used in conjunction with the following:
i. In a punitive or coercive manner;
ii. On a handcuffed or secured prisoner, absent overtly assaultive behavior
that cannot be reasonably dealt with any other less intrusive fashion;
iii. On any suspect who does not demonstrate an overt intention (1) to use
violence or force against themselves, the officer or another person, or (2)
to flee in order to resist or avoid detention or arrest, (3) actively resist
arrest;
iv. On any subject demonstrating only passive resistance.
v. In any environment where an officer knows that a potentially flammable,
volatile, or explosive material is present (including but not limited to OC
spray with volatile propellant, gasoline, natural gas, or propane);
vi. In any environment where it is likely that the subject may drown or fall
from an elevated area.

g. CEW Assignment and Testing
i. If not assigned to the officer, CEWs shall be signed out at the beginning of
the patrol shift from the duty supervisor.
ii. Officers authorized to deploy the device shall be issued a minimum of one
spare cartridge as a backup in case of cartridge failure, the need for
redeployment, or in case the first cartridge’s leads break during
engagement. The spare cartridge shall be stored and carried in a manner
consistent with training and the cartridges replaced consistent with the
manufacturer’s expiration.
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iii. Officers shall test the CEW unit at the beginning of their shift to ensure it
is operational. The CEW unit must have a charge level above 19% to be
used. Officers will:
1. Make certain the CEW is off and pointed in a safe direction
during loading, unloading or when handled in other than
operational deployment.
2. Remove the Probe cartridge and place or hold it at a safe
distance from the CEW to prevent a static discharge.
3. Turn the CEW on for spark testing. Depress the trigger and
listen for the rapidity of the electric pulse
a. Rapid electric pulse = Working condition satisfactory
b. Slow electric pulse = Notify CEW Instructor
c. Below 19% (1 bar showing in the display is equal to
20%) - Notify the CEW Instructor
4. Turn the CEW off
5. Replace Probe Cartridge
6. Place in approved holster for carry on duty.
h. Aiming and Firing the CEW:
i. The officers should aim at the subject while adhering to the
manufacturer’s target zones whenever reasonably possible.
ii. Officers should take into consideration the capabilities and limitations of
the CEW whenever employing it at close quarters.
iii. The CEW should be aimed by use of the aiming laser(s) whenever
possible. Fixed sights shall be used when the laser sight(s) are, ineffective
or as a secondary aiming tool.
iv. The officer shall energize the subject the least number of times and no
longer than necessary to accomplish the legitimate operational objective.
v. The subject should be secured as soon as practical while disabled by the
CEW to minimize the number of deployment cycles. In determining the
need for additional energy cycles, officers should be aware that an
energized subject may not be able to respond to commands during or
immediately following exposure. Personnel should deploy the CEW for
one standard cycle and then evaluate the situation to determine if
subsequent cycles are necessary. Each application of the CEW should be
independently justifiable. Officers should only deploy the CEW to the
extent necessary to gain control of the subject.
vi. After using the CEW the deploying officer shall, whenever possible,
request the duty-supervisor to respond to the scene and collect the
following as evidence:
1. The expended cartridge probes labeling them as biohazards.
Inverting the probes in a vial or envelope and taping them in
place should safely contain them.
vii. Drive stuns (touch stuns), while authorized, shall be used sparingly,
consistent with training.
1. From a policy perspective, drive stuns are no different than a
cartridge deployment.
2. It is important to note that when the CEW is used in this manner,
it is primarily a pain compliance tool; is minimally effective
compared to a conventional cartridge deployment, and is more
like to leave marks on the subject’s skin.
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ISSR 1.1.3d

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viii. Officers should not intentionally activate more than one CEW at a time
against a subject.
i. Following the Deployment of the CEW
2. Whenever the CEW is used on a person, after being restrained, the subject will be
evaluated by qualified medical personnel and/or transported to Hospital Emergency
Room to receive a medical evaluation and treatment by qualified medical personnel in the
event of an obvious health issue.
i. Police officers shall not remove probes which have implanted anywhere
on a subject’s body. Probes that have entered the skin shall only be
removed by competent medical authority.
ii. Officers should obtain a copy of the medical release or waiver of
treatment from attending emergency room personnel.
iii. The deploying officer or his/her supervisor shall photograph all injuries
resulting from the use of the CEW and download the photographs into the
Arrest Report and Offense Report, when applicable.
1. Injuries resulting from the CEW’s probes.
2. Injuries sustained in a fall resulting from the use of a CEW.
iv. The Patrol Supervisor shall notify the Lieutenant whenever an injury,
other than an embedded probe, occurs as the result of the use of a CEW.
v. The deploying officer shall complete and submit a Use of Force Report to
the Lieutenant via the chain of command whenever the CEW is used on a
subject. The Lieutenant will obtain the data download and attach it to the
report form. The form and attached data download shall be filed with the
Use of Force Review Report and forwarded, no later than thirty (30) days
after the incident, to the Institute for Municipal and Regional Policy at
Central Connecticut State University. A written case report and “Use of
Force” report shall also be completed by the deploying officer and
submitted to the supervisor. This report will specifically describe the
justification for the use of force, including events and communications
leading up to the physical confrontation, the subject’s behavior, the
environment in which the incident took place, and any injuries sustained
by anyone during the event. Both report forms will be completed no later
than the next shift by the officer and supervisor.
vi. The supervisor shall notify the Lieutenant of each CEW use.
vii. A copy of the “Electronic Defense Weapon Annual Report” will be
forwarded to the Department’s CEW instructor.
viii. A copy of the Use of Force report with attachments will be forwarded to
the LPD Lieutenant for review. The supervisor’s findings regarding the
deployment of the CEW shall be documented in the Use of Force Report
ix. Should a determination be made by a supervisor that the use of the CEW
was questionable or inappropriate; the matter shall be immediately
referred to the Chief or his designee for further review and action.
b. Annual Reporting
In keeping with the state requirements beginning January 1, 2016, it shall be the
policy of the Ledyard Police Department to complete the POSTC EDW/CEW
Annual Report Form as required by statute. Said Report Form is to be submitted
to the State of Connecticut Criminal Justice Policy and Planning Division within
the Office of Policy and Management no later than January 15 th covering the
preceding calendar year. The report is required for any department having
deployed a CEW against any individual within the calendar year; any department
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ISSR 1.1.3.d

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authorizing the deployment of a CEW but not having any deployments within
that calendar year; and, finally, by any department not authorizing the
deployment of the CEW. Fields are provided on the Annual Report for those
departments falling into the latter two (2) categories.
ISSR 1.1.3b
ISSR 1.1.1

x. OC Spray
1. OC Spray is an organically based aerosol device designed to incapacitate an attacker
without harmful side effects. OC Spray should be deployed in accordance with
department use of force training, department policies and state and federal law.
2. OC Spray is intended to allow an officer to gain a tactical advantage and aid in
controlling a hostile subject by causing the subject’s eyes to close, his/her breathing to
become inhibited and by creating a distraction.
3. All members of the Ledyard Police Department shall be trained in the use of OC Spray
before it is issued to them and before they are permitted to carry it on duty.
4. Retraining shall be conducted on a bi-annual basis as part of the department’s weapons
recertification program. Failure to obtain recertification will result in the officer being
denied permission to carry the OC Spray until such time as remedial training has been
provided and demonstration of proficiency has been documented.
5. OC Spray care and maintenance:
a. Uniformed officers who are authorized to carry OC Spray shall wear it on the
gun belt where it can be easily accessed.
b. OC Spray should be shaken vigorously when first acquired and at least once a
month thereafter. A one second test spray is recommended when issued a new
canister.
c. During annual recertification training the expiration dates of each canister shall
be examined. Expired canisters shall be turned over to the department
quartermaster for disposal.
d. The Training Officer shall issue replacement canisters as needed.
e. OC Spray shall be stored at normal room temperature and shall not be placed
near excessive heat or open flames.
f. Prolonged exposure to sunlight or temperatures more than 120 degrees have been
known to rupture canisters.
g. Prolonged exposure to temperatures below freezing may result in slower
discharge and/or shorter range.
6. OC Spray deployment
a. OC Spray is authorized for use whenever a subject is combative, assuming a
fighting stance, or indicates aggressive intent by other means.
b. OC Spray may not be effective against some subjects. Officers should be
prepared to use other means to control a subject in these situations.
c. Care should be taken to avoid spraying near an open flame.
d. Under normal circumstances a one second spray to the face is sufficient to
control a subject.
e. Whenever possible, a safe distance should be maintained from the subject to
allow the OC Spray to take effect.
f. The subject should be handcuffed as soon as it is possible to do so.
g. Do not spray any subject after resistance has ceased.
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ISSR 1.1.3c

7. After-use procedures
a. Remove the subject from the area where the spray was administered.
b. Assure the subject that the effects of the spray are temporary and should
disappear within 15 – 45 minutes.
c. Allow the OC Spray to dry before transporting.
d. Determine if the subject has any respiratory conditions, such as asthma,
bronchitis or emphysema, if possible. If so, or if symptoms continue, provide
medical assistance and have EMS respond.
e. Compliant subjects may be allowed to clean the OC Spray from their person after
transportation to police headquarters. Apply water to the eyes for relief and the
use of soap and water to remove residual spray from the subject.
f. Noncompliant subjects should have the OC Spray washed off as soon as it is safe
to do so.

ISSR 1.1.3d

8. All uses of OC Spray shall be reported in a written case report and a Use of Force Report
(LPD-404) will be submitted through the chain of command for review and filing.

ISSR 1.1.3b
ISSR 1.1.1
ISSR 1.1.4bcd2

ISSR 1.1.1b

xi. Monadnock Expandable Baton
1. As an impact weapon, the Monadnock Expandable Baton can constitute lethal force if
blows are affected to a vital area such as the head, face or heart. Blows to such areas may
only be used when deadly physical force is justified and the use of a firearm is either
impractical or unavailable.
2. Personnel shall not be issued and shall not carry or use Monadnock Expandable Baton
unless certified by an instructor approved by the State of Connecticut Police Officer
Standards and Training (POST) Council. Recertification shall be conducted on at least a
bi-annual basis. Failure to obtain recertification will result in the officer being denied
permission to carry the baton until such time as remedial training has been provided and
demonstration of proficiency has been documented.
3. Each officer issued a Monadnock Expandable Baton shall be responsible for its loss or
damage. Loss or damage shall be immediately reported verbally and in writing to the
officer’s immediate supervisor.
4. The Monadnock Expandable Baton shall be used in accordance with prescribed training
techniques and methods. Prior to using the Monadnock Expandable Baton, officers must
evaluate the situation to determine whether or not its use is appropriate.
a. The following shall be considered in reaching a decision:
i. The age of the offender
ii. The physical condition of the offender
iii. The level of force being used by the offender
5. The Monadnock Expandable Baton shall be carried in its issued holster whenever on duty
in uniform including private duty assignments. Plainclothes officers, when certified with
the Monadnock Expandable Baton, may carry a shorter model, approved by the Chief of
Police, to facilitate concealment.
6. Exceptions to Section 5 are:
a. A plainclothes assignment where the carrying of the Expandable Baton would
compromise officer safety.
b. Rescue operations or any assignment whereby the Expandable Baton would
interfere with the officer’s activities.
7. The baton should be carried away from public view when unholstered. The baton should
not be extended and openly displayed unless its use is imminent, or during events of civil
unrest or when ordered by the Chief of Police or his/her designee.
8. Officers shall not carry the baton on their person when off-duty unless specifically
authorized by the Chief of Police or his/her designee.
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Use of Force
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ISSR 1.1.3c

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9. Officers will report and document the use of the Monadnock Expandable Baton in their
case reports and in a Department Use of Force Report (LPD-404).
10. If injury or complaint of injury results from the use of the Monadnock Expandable Baton,
involved officers will provide medical attention as their training dictates and contact
EMS to respond if applicable.
xii.
xiii. Use of other instruments
1. The Ledyard Police Department does not authorize the use of other impact instruments
by officers. However, if necessary to protect the officer or a third person from imminent
use of force or cease an attack on the officer, any use of other instruments will be
reported by the officer and reviewed by the uninvolved supervisor for objective
reasonableness under the totality of the circumstances.
2. Nothing in this order shall prevent an officer from utilizing any reasonable means
necessary to defend him or herself or a third person in circumstances or situations where
the actions of a subject constitute resistance that meets the definition deadly physical
force.

g. Use of Force Reports and Reviews.
1. The Chief of Police or his/her designee must be immediately notified of any incidents
involving use of Deadly Physical Force.
2. The use of force report will be completely documented as to necessity, instrumentalities,
and related circumstances in an incident report written by all authorized personnel
ISSR 1.1.3d
utilizing such level of force to include accidental discharges.
3. Supervisors will review all use of force incidents and they will:
a. Determine whether the use of force conforms to current Ledyard Police Department
policy and procedures.
b. Document their findings in writing concerning policy compliance and their review of
the use of force incident on the Use of Force Form (LPD-404)
c. The on-scene supervisor will be prepare or insure preparation the following additional
documentation when use of force is used by members of this department. Such
documentation can be inclusive within the officer’s report or as an addendum by the
supervisor.
(1) As soon as practical, (but no later than the end of shift) notify the Lieutenant
who will in turn immediately notify the Chief of Police.
(2) Assure medical aid is/was rendered for injuries or complaint of pain
(3) Assure Photos are taken of any injuries (obvious or claimed) to include injuries
sustained by LPD officer(s).
(4) Obtain statements of witnesses and accused persons. Document any refusal to
make a statement or cooperate with the supervisor
(6) Obtain a Medical Release. Document if refused.
(7) Obtain reports by all involved officers to include
Witness officers
(8) Prepare a supervisor narrative outlining the level of force used and referencing
the use of force policy and whether or not it was in compliance with the policy.
Utilize the Use of Force Form (LPD-404).
(9) Notify CIRMA Injury Reporting website of any injury to an officer or other
employee of the Town of Ledyard.
4. A Use of Force Report (LPD-404), with the corresponding copy of the incident report,
supplemental reports, and applicable photos, statements, and medical release shall be
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submitted by the supervisor to the Lieutenant no later than seventy-two (72) hours
after the use of force incident. Exceptions to this time frame may be authorized by the
Chief, at the request of the Lieutenant.
5. The Lieutenant will review all documentation provided by the supervisor for completeness
and justification to ensure compliance with the use of force review process. The
Lieutenant will forward to the Chief and/or his/her designee of the findings within
forty-eight (48) hours of receipt of the documentation from the supervisor. Exception
to this timeframe may be authorized by the Chief, at the request of the Lieutenant.
6 In December of each year, the Chief of Police, Lieutenant, Sergeant assigned to Use of
Force, and the Training Sergeant shall conduct a review of Use of Force Reports for the
preceding year. This review will be used to assist in determining the department’s training
needs for the upcoming year.

h. Administration of Weapons
1. The assigned Armorer, Firearms Instructors, and Use of Force Instructors are responsible
to assure that all sworn department personnel are trained and certified in the department
ISSR 1.1.1a,b
issued Glock .45 caliber pistol with approved department issued ammunition and all less
ISSR 1.2.18
lethal weapons they are authorized to carry.
ISSR 1.1.4
a. The training will consist of at least the minimum required initial POST training
and subsequent yearly or biannual qualification/certification.
b. Any personnel not found to be proficient in the use of any weapon will be
brought to the attention of the Chief and the individual will not be allowed to
carry such weapon until he/she proves proficiency according to POSTC
standards.
c. Training and certification rules also apply to off-duty pistols and ammo.
i. Weapons must be semi-automatic pistol or revolver in calibers of .380, 9
mm, .40, .45, .38 or .357. Approved hollow point ammo must be used.
Reloads are never to be used for on-duty carry.
ii. The armorer will inspect and approve all off-duty weapons.
d. After the initial training of the employee to include the inspection and approval
of all weapons to be carried conducted by the armorer and/or instructor, a
supervisor shall, on a monthly basis, physically inspect the issued pistols,
approved off duty firearms and less lethal weapons of all officers. The weapons
will be inspected for cleanliness, mechanism function, and the condition of
ammunition. The supervisor shall also inspect the issued magazines carried by
subordinate officers for the same conditions. Sworn members of the department
shall carry their issued pistols and Taser devices in an appropriate holster while
on duty. Unless specifically authorized by the Chief of Police, no officer shall
carry their pistol or Taser device without a holster, or in a holster that is
inconsistent with the officer’s training and departmental directives.
e. Any weapon found to non-functioning and/or damaged will be removed from
service and another weapon will be issued to the officer. The armorer will be
advised and cause the weapon to be repaired.
2. The Lieutenant or his designee(s) are responsible to maintain a proper inventory of all
issued and stored weapons (lethal and non-lethal) indicating the assigned officers and
expiration dates if applicable.
3. The Lieutenant will assign an officer or supervisor to conduct quarterly inspections
(January, April, July, October) of the Ledyard Police Department armory.
4.
After demonstrating proficiency, Department personnel may only use the assigned
ISSR 1.1.1a,b
weapons with which they have qualified, including patrol rifle, shotgun, pistol, and Taser.

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 General Order
Use of Force

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_______________________________
John J. Rich
Chief of Police

April 4, 2016

________________________________
Date

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