ALLENTOWN POLICE DEPARTMENT
Glenn Granitz Jr.
Chief of Police
Date of Issue:

Effective Date:

January 29, 2020

January 29, 2020

General Order #:
4-14
Distribution:

Review Date:
UNTIL
RESCINDED/AMENDED

Amends:

Subject: Use of Force

N/A
All Personnel

Reference: PLEAC 1.3.1, 1.3.2, 1.3.3, 1.3.4, 1.3.5, 1.3.6,
1.3.7, 1.3.8, 1.3.9, 1.3.101.3.9, 1.3.10

4.14.01

Rescinds:

PURPOSE

The purpose of this General Order is to provide officers with guidelines on
the use of force, deadly force and less lethal force. It does not apply in any
criminal or civil proceeding. This policy should not be construed as a
creation of a higher legal standard of safety, care or conduct for employees
in an evidentiary sense with respect to third party claims. Violations of this
policy will only form the basis for Departmental administrative sanctions.
4.14.02

POLICY

The Allentown Police Department recognizes and respects the value and
special integrity of each human life. In vesting Police Officers with the lawful
authority to use force to protect themselves and the public welfare, a careful
balancing of all human interests is required. It is the policy of this
Department that police officers shall use only that force that is reasonably
necessary to effectively bring an incident under control, while protecting the
lives of the officer and others. Use of force, as designated herein, shall be
reported in a timely, complete, and accurate manner by involved officers and
in accordance with this General Order.
4.14.03

SCOPE

Only Department approved weapons shall be authorized for use by members
of the Allentown Police Department. Members shall only be authorized to

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General Order 4-14
January 29, 2020
carry and use weapons after successfully completing the required course of
instruction.
In the event of a conflict between this General Order and statutes or case
law, the more restrictive shall control.

4.14.04

DEFINITIONS

12 Gauge Bean Bag: 12-gauge bean bag round containing a shot- filled
bag. Used for medium distances, recommended range 10 - 15 yards.
Authorized Firearm: A firearm that has been formally approved by the
Department armorer and Chief of Police for general or individual use by
members. This includes primary service handguns, alternate service
handguns, backup hand-guns, off-duty handguns, shotguns, and rifles used
for law enforcement purposes.
Blue Team: An electronic reporting tool used by the Allentown Police
Department that permits the entry of required reporting by officers and
supervisors in the field.
Chemical Force: Use of any CS, Mace, or OC aerosol or foam spray to
compel compliance.
Cruiser Ready Condition: A patrol rifle with the bolt closed on an empty
chamber, safety lever in the “SAFE” position, and a full magazine (minus 2
rounds) inserted in the magazine well.
Deadly force: Any use of force which, under the circumstances in which it is
used, is readily capable of causing death or serious bodily injury.
Electronic Force: Use of any electronic equipment (Taser®, stun gun, or
similar device to compel compliance.)
Extended Range Impact Devices: Weapon ammunition designed to fire
less-lethal projectiles that can incapacitate or disorient aggressive, violent or
armed subjects.
Firearms Force: The discharge of a firearm to compel compliance.
Firearms Qualification: Periodic testing required of officers to determine
their competency to carry authorized firearms.
Impact Force: Use of any object (baton round, bean bag round, expandable
baton, PR-24, etc.) as a less-lethal weapon to compel compliance.
Less-Lethal Force: Any use of force other than that which is considered
deadly force.
Physical Force: Use of any part of the Officer's body or the use of Police
canines to compel compliance.
Primary Service Handgun: The firearm authorized by this agency to be
carried as part of the service uniform, or the authorized firearm to be carried
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by plain-clothes officers.
Secondary Service Handgun: Any authorized back-up handgun or off-duty
handgun other than the primary service handgun carried in an authorized
concealed manner.
Serious bodily injury: Bodily injury which creates a substantial risk of death
or which causes serious, permanent disfigurement, or protracted loss or
impairment of the function of any bodily member or organ.
Unloaded: A patrol rifle with an empty chamber, safety lever in the “SAFE”
position, and no magazine in the magazine well.
Use of Force: Use of force is the amount of effort required by Police to
compel compliance from a person. This includes any use of force occurring
while the member is acting in an official law enforcement capacity, whether
undercover, plainclothes, or uniform assignments, while on or off duty.
Use of force Review Board: The Use of Force Review Board shall consist
of four Captains and a Use of Force Instructor from the Police Academy. A
quorum shall consist of 2 Captains and a Use of Force Instructor from the
Police Academy.
4.14.05

PROCEDURES
A.

Statutory Authority:
All Officers are responsible for the review and knowledge of
Pennsylvania Statute Title 18, Chapter 5, General Principles of
Justification. Specifically, members are governed by Section 505,
Use of Force in Self-Protection; Section 506, Use of Force for the
Protection of Other Persons; Section 507, Use of Force for the
Protection of Property; and Section 508, Use of Force in Law
Enforcement. These statutes have been used to form the basis of
this policy.

B.

Level of Force:
1.

Department members shall use only the amount of force
which is necessary and reasonable to control the situation,
effect an arrest, overcome resistance to arrest, or defend
themselves or others from harm. No officer will use
unreasonable or excessive force toward any person.

2.

When the use of force is necessary, the degree of force that
is employed should be in direct relationship to the amount of
resistance employed by the person or the immediate threat
the person poses to the officer or others.

3.

The use of force by members of the Department will,
whenever possible, be progressive in nature. This force may
be in the form of officer presence, verbal control, physical
control, chemical agents (OC), use of baton or other less
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lethal weapons, canine, or the use of deadly force.
C.

Parameters for Use of Deadly Force:
1.

When it is necessary for an Allentown Police Officer to
discharge a firearm, the member shall exercise the utmost
caution so as to avoid endangering innocent persons.

2.

There are three instances in which a Police Officer may
discharge a firearm at another human being:

3.

a.

When the Officer reasonably believes that such force
is necessary to prevent death or serious bodily injury
to themselves.

b.

When the Officer reasonably believes that such force
is necessary to prevent death or serious bodily injury
to another person.

c.

When the Officer believes that no other alternative
exists to affect the arrest, to prevent the person
fleeing from arrest or Police custody, and when the
officer has probable cause or reasonably believes
that:
i.

The person fleeing possesses a deadly
weapon which he has used or indicates he is
about to use, or

ii.

The person fleeing has indicated that he will
endanger human life or inflict serious bodily
injury unless arrested without delay.

If feasible, an Officer shall identify themselves and give
warning before discharging a firearm in any of the above
instances.

D. Guidelines on display and discharge of firearms:
1.

An Officer may display or discharge a weapon under the
following circumstances:
a.

Under the parameters for use of deadly force as
stated above.

b.

During range practice, required Department training
or competitive sporting events.

c.

To destroy an animal that represents a threat to public
safety, or as a humanitarian measure where the
animal is seriously injured. The destruction of an
injured animal shall be documented on an
Offense/Incident Report.

d.

Officers shall adhere to the following restrictions when
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their

weapon is displayed:

Except for maintenance, inspection, or during training,
members shall not draw or display their firearm unless
circumstances create reasonable cause to believe
that it may be necessary to use the weapon in
conformance with this policy.
e.

Officers shall not use their firearm to fire a warning
shot.

f.

Firearms shall not be discharged at a moving vehicle unless:
a person in the vehicle is threatening the officer or
another person with deadly force by means other than
the vehicle;
or
the vehicle is operated in a manner deliberately
intended to strike an officer or another person, and all
other reasonable means of defense have been
exhausted (or are not present or practical), which
includes moving out of the path of the vehicle.
Firearms shall not be discharged from a moving
vehicle except in exigent circumstances. In these
situations, an officer must have an articulable reason
for this use of deadly force.

E.

2.

Removal of firearms from the holster or other carrying
devices for other than authorized purposes, such as tactical
use, training and qualification, inspection, or cleaning and
maintenance, is prohibited. Any careless or casual use or
display of a firearm will constitute grounds for discipline.

3.

All incidents of firearms discharge will be immediately
reported to a Police supervisor, and documented on the
appropriate form(s), except during range practice, or
competitive sporting events.

4.

All incidents of displaying a firearm off-duty will be promptly
reported to a Police supervisor and be documented on the
appropriate Police report, except during range practice,
required Department training, or competitive sporting events.

Parameters for use of non-deadly force:
1.

Where deadly force is not authorized, officers shall use only
that level of force on the force continuum that is reasonably
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necessary to de-escalate the incident and bring it under
control.
2.

Allentown Police Officers are only authorized to use
Department approved less-lethal force techniques and
issued equipment for resolution of incidents as follows:
a.

To protect themselves or another From physical
harm;

b.

To restrain or subdue a resistant individual; or

c.

To bring an unlawful situation safely and effectively
under control.

F. Force Continuum (Appendix A)
1.

The Force Continuum is a logical progression through the
stages of force. The continuum shows the levels of force
available to Police Officers during an arrest or non-arrest
situation. It is further divided with various levels of actions
that are available to the Police when the actions of a subject
escalate or de-escalate. The force continuum is categorized
into types of subjects, such as cooperative, resister, or
assailant, and then grouped into seven distinct categories
within those three subject areas. The detail of the continuum
assists members in analyzing the force used. The force
continuum for appropriate force response is as follows:
a.

Officer Presence (social control)

Definition: Identification of authority.
b.

Verbal Control

Definition: Commands of direction or arrest. Must be used in
conjunction with all other uses of force.
c.

Restraint and Control
i.

Weaponless Control
Definition: Control techniques that have a
minimal probability of injury, such as holding,
low pressure impact, or direct mechanical
techniques.
Note: Use of neck restraints or similar
weaponless control techniques (choke holds) is
prohibited. Preventing imminent death or
serious bodily injury to a member or citizen is
the only possible exception to the prohibition.

2.

Impact Weapon / Control modes with weapons
Definition: Blunt tool used to strike or restrain.
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3.

Chemical Agents
OC (Oleoresin Capsicum) Chemical Aerosol
Definition: An organic agent that is inflammatory.
Causes localized topical heat, redness, inflammation
and pain to all exposed skin and tissues. Effective
time is 30 to 45 minutes. Usually does not require
medical attention.

4.

Taser
a.

Intermediate Force
i.

Extended Range Impact Devices
Definition: less-lethal option for use against
violent crowds, violent subjects not armed with
firearms, mentally disturbed person exhibiting
aggressive behavior, and in support of tactical
operations.

ii.

Canine Techniques
Definition: various techniques used by canine
handlers to assist in the control or
apprehension of subjects who present a
danger to the community or the Officer.

b.

Deadly Force
Definition: Force which, under the circumstances in
which it is used, is readily capable of causing death or
serious bodily injury.

G.

Appropriate medical aid after the use of force:
1.

2.

H.

Police Officers are required to provide appropriate medical
aid after the use of force in the following circumstances;
a.

To all persons with obvious injuries.

b.

To all persons complaining of injuries.

c.

To all persons with subjected injuries.

Appropriate medical aid includes increased observation to
detect obvious changes in condition; flushing chemical
agents from the eyes; applying first aid; evaluation by
paramedics; or for more serious or life threatening incidents,
immediate aid by medical professionals.

Reporting Use of Force
1.

All incidents of firearms discharge will be immediately
reported to a supervisor and documented in Blue Team as a
“Firearm Discharge”, except during range practice,
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competitive sporting events, required department training, or
destruction of an injured animal.
2.

When physical force is used to overcome resistance to an
official police action, an officer shall make an immediate
report to their supervisor, as well as document the use of
force in appropriate police incident reports and in Blue
Team; specific actions shall be described in detail in the
narrative.
Failure to report any use of force pursuant to this policy shall
result in disciplinary action.

3.

Upon receipt of a Blue Team Use of Force report, the Office
of Professional Standards shall gather all available
information regarding the Use of Force, including the RMS
records, Taser Download report (if applicable) and any
available video and attach all documentation to the Blue
Team Record electronically.

4.

Shift Supervisors/Commanders shall investigate, and report
uses of force, as directed by the General Order, and ensure
that the proper documentation is being completed by each
officer involved in the incident and the member’s supervisor.
a.

Each Officer who uses force in an incident shall be
listed in Blue Team as an “Involved Officer”.

b.

Each Blue Team entry shall specify the force used,
the actions of the subject that necessitated the force
that was used, the reasons why the officer used force,
as well as any subject complaints of injury, medical
treatment received, or refusal of medical treatment.

c.

The arresting officer shall notify transporting officers if
force was used on the subject, or if the subject has an
injury or complaint of pain.

d.

All use of force reports will then be reviewed by the
Use of Force Review Board.

5.

Any Use of Force that results in injury, or complaint of injury,
or requiring medical treatment, shall be properly documented
in Blue Team and forwarded to the Use of Force Review
Board.

6.

All Use of Force Reports, after being reviewed by the Use of
Force Review board, regardless of whether or not there was
injury, will be forwarded to the Asst. Chief of Operations.
The Asst. Chief of Operations will determine adherence to
policy and procedures, completeness of the report, and to
detect and correct any training deficiencies.
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If deemed necessary by the Asst. Chief of Operations, the
incident will be forwarded to the Office of Professional
Standards for review.
Upon completion of all reviews, they will be forwarded to the
Office of the Chief of Police, copied to the Asst. Chief of
Administration.
I.

Referral/Transport for Medical Attention:
1.

Arresting and transporting officers shall ask prisoners
whether they are injured or ill.

2.

Prisoners shall be examined by an appropriate health care
provider prior to interrogation or prisoner processing for
purposes of detention when suffering from, or complaining
of, injury or illness, or when the individual:

3.

J.

a.

Is extremely intoxicated or under the influence of
drugs to a degree that endangers life.

b.

Is believed to have ingested drugs.

c.

Is struck with an extended range impact device such
as a Bean Bag Round or Baton.

d.

Is bitten by a Police canine.

e.

Has been tased.

f.

Has been introduced to OC and is wearing contact
lenses.

g.

If an officer discharges his/her firearm at a subject, a
medical evaluation by a certified paramedic/EMT or
doctor shall be performed on the subject as soon as it
can be done safely.

An injured prisoner shall not be placed or held in a
Department holding cell or processing area without being
examined and released by a physician or qualified health
care provider. Minor injuries may be treated by Police
personnel.
a.

Whenever there is doubt concerning the need for
medical attention, it should be resolved through
examination of the prisoner by an appropriate health
care provider.

b.

Refusal of treatment shall be documented and verified
by the member’s supervisor and/or attending
physician or health care provider.

Cases resulting in serious injury or death
a.

The on-duty Shift Commander shall notify the Chief of
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Police or designee in cases involving the serious
injury or death of a person resulting, or allegedly
resulting, from an officer's use of force.

K.

L.

b.

The Patrol Supervisor shall immediately notify the
Criminal Investigation Division and shall coordinate
and assist that unit in conducting the investigation.

c.

The Assistant Chief of Police of Operations will
coordinate the notification of The Lehigh County
District Attorney's Office.

Use of Force Review Board:
1.

All reported use of force incidents will be reviewed by the
Use of Force Review Board.

2.

The Review Board shall meet regularly or at the discretion of
the Chief. In order to conduct a Use of Force Review the
board shall have at least three members present, one of
which shall be a Use of Force Instructor from the Police
Academy.

3.

The Use of Force Board shall make recommendations to the
Assistant chief of Operations whether:
a.

Departmental rules, policy or procedures were
violated,

b.

The relevant policy was clearly understandable and
effective to cover the situation;

c.

Department training is currently adequate.

4.

The Assistant Chief of Operations shall then report the
violation(s) and/or deficiencies to the Assistant Chief of
Support Services for OPS review.

5.

All completed Use of Force Review Board inquiries shall be
reported to the Chief of Police for final review and to
determine appropriate action if necessary.

6.

All use-of-force incident reports shall be retained in the Blue
Team records system for the period of time directed by
retention policy. Administrative Investigations Reports
generated as a result of a Use of Force Review shall be
maintained in the Office of Professional Standards.

Assignments following incidents involving death or serious
physical injury:
1.

When a Police Officer's use of force causes death, or
serious physical injury, the officer shall be placed on
administrative leave/duty after completing all administrative
investigation requirements, and until it is determined by a
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mental health professional and the Chief of Police that the
Police Officer is ready to return to duty.
2.
M.

The Department shall ensure that both an administrative and
criminal investigation of the incident occur.

Guidelines for the use of oleoresin capsicum (OC) aerosol
restraint spray:
The Department has issued OC aerosol restraint spray to provide
officers with additional use of force options for gaining compliance
of resistant or aggressive individuals in arrest and other
enforcement situations. Officers shall use OC when warranted in
accordance with the guidelines and procedures in this regulation.
1.

Only officers who have completed the prescribed course of
instruction on the use of OC are authorized to carry the
device.

2.

Officers whose normal duties/assignments may require them
to make arrests or supervise arrestees and have been
properly trained may carry Department authorized OC while
on duty.

3.

Uniformed officers shall carry only Department authorized
OC canisters in the prescribed manner on the duty belt. Nonuniformed officers may carry OC in alternative devices as
authorized by the Department.

4.

OC spray is considered a use of force and shall be
employed in a manner consistent with this use of force
policy. OC is a force option following verbal compliance
tactics on the use-of-force continuum. OC may be used
when:
a.

Verbal dialogue has failed to bring about the subject's
compliance, and;

b.

The subject has signaled his intention to actively
resist the officer's efforts to make the arrest.

5.

Whenever practical and reasonable, officers should issue a
verbal warning prior to using OC against a subject.

6.

An officer may not use deadly force to protect himself from
the use or threatened use of OC unless there is sufficient
belief that deadly force may be used against him if he
becomes incapacitated.

7.

Once a subject is incapacitated or restrained, use of OC is
no longer justified.

8.

Usage Procedures

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9.

a.

Whenever possible, officers should be upwind from
the subject before using OC and should avoid
entering the spray area.

b.

An officer should maintain a safe distance from the
subject of between three (3) and twelve (12) feet.

c.

A single spray burst of between ½ and 1 second
should be directed at the subject's eyes, nose and
mouth. Additional burst(s) may be used if the initial or
subsequent burst proves ineffective.

d.

Use of OC should be avoided, if possible, under
conditions where it may affect innocent bystanders.

Effects of OC and Officer Response
a.

The effects of OC vary among individuals. Therefore,
all subjects shall be handcuffed as soon as possible
after being sprayed. Officers should also be prepared
to employ other force options consistent with
Department policy, if the subject does not respond
sufficiently to the spray and cannot otherwise be
subdued.

b.

Immediately after spraying a subject, Officers shall be
alert to any indications that the individual needs
medical care. This includes, but is not limited to,
breathing difficulties, gagging, profuse sweating, and
loss of consciousness. Upon observing these or
other medical problems, or if the subject requests
medical assistance, the Officer shall immediately
summon emergency medical aid.

c.

Subjects that have been sprayed shall be monitored
continuously for indications of medical problems and
shall not be left alone while in custody until the effects
of the OC spray have worn off.

d.

Officers should provide assurance to subjects who
have been sprayed that the effects are temporary and
encourage them to relax. To prevent positional
asphyxiation from occurring, the subject shall never
be placed in the prone position while handcuffed after
OC is deployed.

e.

Air will normally begin reducing the effects of OC
spray within 15 minutes of exposure. However, once
the subject has been restrained, officers shall assist
the subject by providing a means of rinsing the
exposed area.
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f.

N.

Assistance shall be offered to any individuals
accidentally exposed to OC spray who feel the effects
of the agent. All such incidents shall be reported as
soon as possible to the Officer's immediate
supervisor, and shall be detailed in the incident report
and the Blue Team Entry.

10.

All uses of OC spray against an individual shall be reported
to the officer's immediate supervisor as soon as possible. In
addition to other required incident reports, a Blue Team entry
shall be completed following all discharges of OC spray
except during testing, training, malfunction or accidental
discharge. Copies of the related incident reports shall be
attached to the Administrative Investigation Report for
submission to the Office of Professional Standards.

11.

All OC spray devices shall be maintained in an operational
and charged state by assigned personnel. It will be the
responsibility of the officer to whom the OC spray was
issued to report damaged, inoperable, or empty devices to
their immediate supervisor. OC spray canisters shall be
replaced when necessary.

Taser/CEW:
Definitions:
CEW: Conducted Energy Weapon
CEW Control Manager: A CEW instructor who has been
appointed by the Chief of Police to manage the Departments CEW
Program.
CEW Instructors: All approved CEW instructors of the Allentown
Police Department.
Conventional tactics: Those tactics and other uses of force
described in the Department’s Use of Force Policy.
Department: Allentown Police Department, Allentown, PA.
Deployment: The activation of a Taser/CEW resulting in the arcing
of the unit, a contact maneuver on a subject or animal, and/or the
discharge smart cartridge, whether or not the probes strike their
intended target. The mere display of a Taser/CEW is not a
deployment.
Exposure/tased: The accepted words indicating that a person or
animal has received an electrical charge from a CEW.
Laser painting: CEW is pointed at a subject, red dot lasers are on
the subject as a warning, but there is no arcing of the CEW.
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Medical Personnel: Includes, but is not limited to, Doctors,
Physician’s Assistants, Nurses, Paramedics, and Emergency
Medical Technicians.
Supervisor: An Allentown Police Department Officer above the
rank of Patrol Officer to include Sergeants, Lieutenants, or above,
and the Chief of Police.
Procedure:
1.

Taser/CEW includes but is not limited to the X-2 Taser, and
any Department authorized and issued less-lethal device
which is designed to produce and emit an electrical charge.

2.

Personally owned Tasers/CEW are not authorized.
Allentown Police Department officers will be trained in the
use of the Taser/CEW before they are allowed to deploy with
the device.

3.

CEW shall be issued to and handled or deployed only by
officers who have completed the Department's CEW
Training Program, and mandated CEW Training Program
from AXON. The CEW shall be handled in the same manner
and treated with the same degree of care and discretion as a
firearm.

4.

CEW shall only be used as instructed in the training course,
and only in accordance with Department policy, and State
Law.

5.

CEW issuance records:
a.

Specific officer issuance: A record will be kept of all
CEWs, their serial numbers, and which officers the
CEW has been issued to.

6.

All CEW and associated equipment shall be properly
secured when not in use. When carried in the field, the
CEW shall be carried in the Department approved holster.
The holster shall be carried opposite of the officer’s
department issued sidearm, or in a leg holster, approved by
the CEW Manager/Instructor, and the Chief of Police.

7.

CEW inspection prior to shift: Prior to officers (carrying
CEWs) at commencement of their shifts, the officers shall:
a.

Point CEW in safe direction.

b.

Keep body parts away from the front of the
CEW/smart cartridges.

c.

Make sure the safety switch is in the up (armed)
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position before use. Depress the ARC switch for a full
5 seconds.
i.

Check that the CEW is sparking

ii.

Check battery performance

iii.

Check the CID to ensure no fault icons are
present

8.

Any CEW or component thereof found to be defective or
damaged shall be returned to the CEW Control Manager for
repair or replacement, with a detailed explanation of the
malfunction or cause of damage.

9.

Alterations: No changes, alterations, modifications or
substitutions shall be made to the CEW or the smart
cartridges. All repairs to CEWs or accessories shall be
completed by a Department authorized armorer or vendor.
CEW repairs shall be documented and the records shall be
maintained by the CEW Manager.

10.

Each deployment of a CEW shall be investigated and
documented utilizing the appropriate Blue Team entry/report,
and the Initial Report. This includes a contact deployment,
as well as the firing of a smart cartridge or other deployment
resulting in a subject or animal receiving an electrical charge
from the CEW, or when the CEW is activated (“sparked”).
Accidental smart cartridge discharge – In the event of an
accidental CEW smart cartridge discharge, the officer shall
notify their supervisor and prepare a written report
documenting the accidental discharge. The supervisor will
investigate the deployment and complete a Blue Team
report if warranted. Any accidental discharge of a CEW
smart cartridge shall be documented in an Incident Report.

CEW may be used:
11.

Authorized personnel may use the CEW when
circumstances known to the officer at the time, indicate that
such application of the CEW is reasonable to control a
person in the following circumstances:
a.

The subject is violent or physically resisting and
presents the potential to harm officers, him/herself, or
others.

b.

A subject who, by words or action, has demonstrated
an intention to be violent or to physically resist and
who reasonably appears to present the potential to
harm officers, him/herself, or others.

c.

Absent meeting the conditions set forth in (a) or (b)
above, or a reasonable belief that an individual has
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committed or threatened to commit a serious offense
which is defined as any felony, any crime of violence,
or any crime of reckless driving or of driving while
intoxicated if such involves personal injury to
another. Mere flight from pursuing officers shall not
serve as good cause for the use of the CEW to
apprehend an individual.
12.

Whenever a CEW is to be deployed it is the responsibility of
the deploying officer to make certain officers on scene
understand that the CEW is being deployed prior to the
deployment of the Taser if at all possible. This shall be
accomplished through the warning announcement “TASER!
TASER!” to alert other officers, as well as to provide the
subject an additional opportunity to cease the conduct that
has given rise to the deployment of the CEW.

13.

Elevated CEW application risk factors – The following
factors, where apparent to involved officers, will require
elevated justification of CEW application.
Under the
following conditions the risk of foreseeable direct or
secondary injuries are elevated, thus officer’s justification for
CEW application are also elevated. These elevated risk
factors can only be given consideration when the factors are
reasonably perceived by the officer.
a.
b.
c.
d.
e.
f.
g.
h.
i.
j.
k.

14.

15.

Presence of flammable materials/fumes or explosive
environments
Elevated positions or platform
Persons operating moving vehicles or machinery
(including bicycles)
Persons running (fleeing) or under momentum
Pregnant female
Swimming pool or other body of water
Intentional CEW application to sensitive areas
Frail or infirm individual
Non-standard repeated, extended, or continuous
CEW applications
Person with low body mass
Probes in heart or chest area

Elevated justification for the use of a CEW will be needed for
the use on the following individuals:
a.
Children
b.
Seniors
c.
Restrained subjects
Use of CEW on animals
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a.

b.

16.

Using a CEW against an animal may reduce the need
for greater, more injurious force against such animals.
The use of a CEW on an animal should be based on
the intent to provide a safer, more humane conclusion
to an incident.
A CEW can be deployed on an animal when:
i.
The animal is threatening or is attacking a
person, other animals, or property.
ii.
The animal is causing a continuous public
nuisance and the animal needs to be captured
for the reason of public peace and safety,
preservation of property, or other legitimate
purpose, and the animal poses an active threat
to officers in their effort to perform their duty.

CEW’s shall not be used:
a.
b.
c.
d.
e.

f.

Punitively
In drive stun mode as a prod or escort device
To rouse an unconscious, impaired, or intoxicated
individual
For horse play in an unprofessional manner
To experiment on a person or to allow them to
experience the CEW. This does not apply to voluntary
CEW training exposures or CEW demonstrations as
authorized by the department.
For illegal purposes (ex. illegal coercion, torture, etc.)

17.

Other CEW factors to consider:
a.
CEW is not a substitute for deadly force. A CEW
should generally not be used as a substitute for
deadly force and should not be used in those
situations. Officers decision to deploy a CEW should
be backed up with the immediate availability of deadly
force.
b.
CEW vs. handgun – Prior to the deployment of a
CEW the officers deploying the CEW has the
responsibility to reasonably visually and physically
confirm that the use of force tool selected is in fact a
CEW and not a firearm in order to avoid weapon
confusion.

18.

Subjects who have received an electrical charge from
the CEW unit or probes, shall be treated as follows:
a.

Once the subject is safely secured and in custody, the
arresting officer shall notify EMS that the subject has
received an electrical charge from the CEW and
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b.

c.

relate the approximate time the action occurred. If the
probes penetrate the skin, the puncture sites shall be
brought to the attention of medical personnel.
Officers shall remove probes unless embedded in soft
tissue areas such as the head, neck, face, hand,
breast, and groin. Removal from these sensitive
areas will be done at discretion of EMS or hospital
personnel.
The officer who deployed the CEW or the on-scene
supervisor shall allow medical personnel to determine
if the subject should be transported to the hospital.

d.

If the probes are no longer affixed to the subject, and
medical personnel determine the subject does not
need to be transported to the emergency
room/hospital, the subject may be transported to a
holding facility for booking procedures.

e.

If the subject is transported to the emergency
room/hospital, the transporting officer shall obtain a
medical release from medical personnel before the
subject is transported to any holding facility.

f.

Officers must be aware that one aspect of possible
injury to a subject receiving an electrical charge from
a CEW is that of falling from a standing position.

g.

Caution should be exercised in handling probes that
have penetrated a subject’s skin. Such probes shall
be made safe on scene and either placed in a sharps
container in the on scene ambulance or upon
returning to station shall be put in the sharps
container. The probes shall be handled with the same
care as a hypodermic needle.

Documentation:
19.

The deploying officer is responsible for documenting the
deployment of the CEW by completing the Blue Team Use of
Force report, and indicating the CEW use on the diagram in
the appropriate section, as well as submitting a detailed
account of the probable cause for deploying the CEW each
time it is deployed. If the deploying officer is not the primary
reporting officer, the deploying officer shall provide a detailed
supplement to the case documenting his/her role in the
deployment of the CEW.

20.

The officer deploying the CEW shall ensure photographs are
taken of the subject receiving an electrical charge from the
CEW (contact or probes), with special attention to any area
injured and where the charge was received. A department
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issued body camera may be used to comply with this
section.
The officer shall also include detailed
documentation in the incident report of how the injuries
occurred.
21.

The deploying officer shall notify his/her Supervisor. The
CEW Instructor should be notified as reasonably possible of
the use of the CEW to ensure a detailed review is
downloaded of the deployment.

22.

The CEW that was deployed shall be removed from service
until such time as the deployment report is downloaded from
the CEW data port. A CEW instructor trained to recover the
deployment data shall perform this function. Once a printed
report is obtained, the CEW may return to service.

23.

A copy of the printed deployment report shall include the
date prior to the deployment, the date of deployment on a
subject, and the day after, if available. The CEW instructor/
manager shall then submit a supplemental report indicating
they downloaded the data and then shall be submitted for
inclusion in the case file.

CEW Training and Certification:
24.

CEW authorization – Only trained and qualified department
officers may carry and/or use a CEW.

25.

CEW training – All members of the department who carry
and/use a CEW must first successfully complete a
department approved and mandated CEW familiarization
program to include written and practical tests.

26.

CEW re-certification - A mandatory annual re-certification
program will be successfully completed

27.

Certified instructors – All department CEW certification
programs will be presented by an Axon certified (or
equivalent) instructor

28.

Training records – the department CEW control manager
shall maintain CEW training and certification records.

CEW Control Manager's Responsibilities:
29.

Receive, inspect, and ensure the maintenance and
replacement of the Department’s CEW devices and related
equipment.

30.

Establish and maintain systems to record issuance of
equipment.

31.

Return defective or damaged CEW and smart cartridges to
the suppliers.
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General Order 4-14
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O.

32.

Obtain service and/or replacement for defective or damaged
CEW components from the supplier.

33.

Review reported uses of a CEW by Department personnel
and establishes a system for maintaining statistics on the
performance of the CEW.

34.

Annual re-certification training on the CEW is provided as
needed, as well as maintaining a record of the training.

35.

All other duties as may become necessary for the
employment, maintenance, and enhancement of the
Department’s CEW program.

36.

Constantly monitors the CEW Program and updates
necessary policies and keeps the Chief of Police informed of
all issues regarding the CEW program.

Extended Range Impact Devices:
Extended range impact devices are approved for use in subduing
or controlling violent persons who either resist arrest or
demonstrate threatening behavior for which substantial force may
be justified after a subject has failed to comply with verbal
commands and other progressive levels of force, before the use of
deadly force. The extended range impact device used by the
Department is the 12 gauge bean bag round.
1.

Extended Range Impact Device may be used generally to:
a.

Prevent injury to a Police Officer and/or other person.

b.

Overcome unlawful resistance to an arrest or
detention.

c.

Prevent escalation of an incident to a life threatening
situation.

d.

Disperse individuals/groups who are committing
unlawful acts, refuse to disperse, and the failure to
disperse has the potential for creating a public safety
hazard.

2.

Note that an officer's assessment of the current threat level
may justify rapid acceleration through the levels on the use
of force continuum, and might even dictate a need to skip
certain levels (e.g., - a subject advancing aggressively on an
officer may offer no safe opportunity to issue verbal
commands).

3.

As with other uses of force, application of extended range
impact devices will cease when the offender stops
resistance or aggression, or when the arresting officers(s)
have gained sufficient control of the subject.
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4.

The extended range impact devices will be used in an
attempt to de-escalate a potentially deadly situation, with a
reduced potential for death or serious injury to all persons
involved.

5.

Due to the extended range impact devices potential for
causing injury, unarmed subjects/persons should not be
engaged without sufficient justification.

6.

The following conditions may preclude the use of extended
range impact devices:
a.

Where the size, age, and/or weight of the subject
would increase the potential of serious bodily injury or
death.

b.

Where there is an obvious or known medical condition
that would increase the potential of serious bodily
injury or death to the subject.

c.

Where the use of an extended range impact device
would increase the risk to hostages or other
person(s).

7. Any member that has been trained and is currently qualified to
use the extended range impact device may use this weapon if
justified by the circumstances.
8. Designated vehicles have been equipped with orange stocked
shotguns for the sole purpose of distribution of less lethal force:
a.

The orange-stocked shotguns will only be loaded with
less lethal ammunition.

b.

The shotguns will be securely stored, unloaded, in the
above noted vehicles in the cases provided.

c.

The shotguns will be inspected and maintained by the
officers assigned to those vehicles.

d.

Shotguns which have been damaged, or require repairs, will
be reported to the Lead firearms instructor

9.

Prior to deploying the 12-gauge beanbag extended range
impact device, members must make every effort, including a
visual and physical inspection of the shotgun chamber and
magazine, to ensure all duty or other specialty ammunition is
removed prior to loading/deploying the extended range
impact device.

10.

To avoid the contagion of gunfire effect and the possibility of
the inappropriate introduction of deadly force, all Police
Officers involved in the operation must be informed that
Extended Range Impact Devices will be used.
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11.

After employing extended range impact devices against any
person, officers shall immediately have them transported to
a hospital for a medical examination.

12.

Members who use extended range impact devices against
any person shall document such use in an Investigative
Supplemental report. This will include:

13.

4.14.06

a.

The reason for employing extended range impact
devices;

b.

The type and amount used;

c.

The effect upon the individual(s);

d.

Any medical treatment provided, and;

e.

Any injuries sustained by any person involved in the
incident.

In addition to required incident reporting, the Supervisor or
Commander shall ensure the completion of a Blue Team
Entry and attach copies of the related Incident Reports for
submission to the Office of Professional Standards and/or
the Use of Force Review Board.

ANNUAL PROFICIENCY TRAINING

All training, qualifications and weapon proficiency must be documented on the
Police Academy Qualification Form. Supervisors shall ensure that all issued
weapons are inspected for proper condition, function, and reliability and
documented on the monthly or quarterly Firearm Inspection Form. All department
authorized weapons will be documented, and records will be kept by Academy
personnel. Records are updated yearly and expunged at the discretion of Police
Administration.
A.

At least annually, all officers authorized to carry weapons are
required to receive in-service training on the use of deadly force
Policies and demonstrate proficiency with all approved lethal and
less-lethal weapons that the officer is authorized to use. Authorized
weapons and ammunition include:
1.

2.

Handguns
a.

Glock 19 9mm

b.

Glock 26 9mm

Weapon Mounted Handgun Lights
a.

The department will issue weapon mounted lights for
Officers’ handguns (if officer prefers a mounted light).
Duty holsters will be issued to accommodate the
handgun equipped with a light.
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3.

4.

b.

Officers are required to qualify with the handgun
equipped with a light and holster prior to using it on
duty.

c.

All handgun lights must be approved by the Chief of
Police or his de-signee

d.

Handgun lights that also have a laser sighting device
are prohibited for duty use unless specifically
authorized in writing by the Chief of Police or his designee.

e.

Handguns with laser sighting devices are prohibited
for duty use unless specifically authorized in writing
by the Chief of police or his designee.

Patrol Rifles and Accessories
a.

Authorized patrol rifles will be AR-15 type rifles
chambered in .223 / 5.56 caliber.

b.

All patrol rifles will be equipped with traditional front
and rear iron sights.

c.

Patrol rifles may be fitted with red dot / reflexive type
sighting systems such as those
manufactured by
Aimpoint, EO-Tech, and Trijicon. The exact brand or
type of sight is subject to approval by the Chief of
police, or his designee.

d.

All patrol rifles will be fitted with a sling.

e.

All patrol rifles will be fitted with a weapon mounted
light.

Maintenance / Repairs / Modifications of Rifles
a.

All patrol rifles will be maintained by the lead firearms
instructor for the department or his designee.
Maintenance will include cleaning, lubrication, and
inspection of patrol rifles.

b.

Only the lead firearms instructor will perform or
authorize repairs or modifications to the patrol rifles.

c.

Officers signing out a patrol rifle or signing out a
police vehicle equipped with a patrol rifle will be
responsible for ensuring that the rifle and accessories
are in good working condition prior to the start of shift.
Officers will ensure that the patrol rifle is loaded to
cruiser ready condition and the weapon mounted light
and optic (if equipped) are working properly.
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5.

6.

7.

8.

Zeroing of Patrol Rifles
a.

All patrol rifles will be zeroed by the lead firearms
instructor or his designee. This refers to traditional
iron sights and red dot / reflexive type sights. Unless
authorized by the lead firearms instructor, no other
officer will change the zero for either iron sights or
optics.

b.

A current record of the patrol rifle zero will be kept on
file by the lead firearms instructor.

Patrol Rifle Security / Storage
a.

Patrol rifles assigned to a vehicle will be stored in the
secure rifle rack in cruiser ready condition. If there is
no storage rack, patrol rifles will be stored in a case in
the trunk.

b.

Officers deploying a patrol rifle or taking it in / out of
service will be responsible for its security.

c.

Patrol rifles that are out of service will be stored,
unloaded, in the armory at the 10th Street Patrol
Station or the armory at the police academy.

d.

The patrol rifle will be removed from any vehicle that
is being taken out of service for maintenance or
repairs. This includes vehicles grounded at the city
garage, radio repair, or dealerships.

Patrol Rifle Deployment
a.

The decision to fire the patrol rifle shall be in
accordance with State Law and APD Use of Force
General Order 4-14.

b.

Patrol rifles may only be deployed when an officer
believes that the tactical advantage of a rifle may be
necessary.

c.

Patrol rifles that have been deployed, but not fired,
must be placed back to cruiser ready condition prior
to placing them back into the police vehicle.

Shotguns:
a.

9.
10.

Remington 870 or other shotgun approved by the
Chief of police or his designee.

Submachine Guns (ERT use only)
Ammunition
a.

Only Department authorized ammunition shall be
used in firearms.
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January 29, 2020
b.

While on duty, officers are authorized to carry only
departmental issued ammunition.

c.

Officers shall not use ball (full metal Jacketed) nonexpanding ammunition in any handgun, except for
target practice.

d.

The use of reloaded ammunition in Department
issued weapons is prohibited

e.

The use of nylon-jacketed ammunition, or bullets
which are designed to fragment on impact or
constructed with a fragmented core are prohibited
except for training purposes under the direction of an
ERT Supervisor or a Firearms instructor.

4.14.07 QUALIFICATION REQUIREMENTS: LESS LETHAL WEAPONS
A.

Members shall adhere to the requirements established herein to
ensure safe handling and use less lethal weapons.
1.

2.

3.

Authorized Less Lethal weapons (excludes ERT)
a.

Expandable Baton

b.

PR-24 Baton

c.

Oleoresin Capsicum (OC) Aerosol Restraint Spray

d.

Less Lethal Shotgun

e.

Taser

Prior to receiving authorization to carry any less lethal
weapon, all officers shall;
a.

Receive training regarding the use from a certified
instructor,

b.

Demonstrate proficient knowledge of its use.

c.

On an annual basis, each officer must demonstrate
proficiency with each less-lethal weapon with a
certified instructor. Officers who fail to demonstrate
proficiency with any less lethal weapon will be subject
to remedial training.

d.

All lethal and less-lethal weapons shall be inspected
for proper condition, function, and reliability prior to
proficiency training.

Remedial training requirements
a.

The member’s Commander shall be notified by the
Range Officer and shall promptly arrange for a period
of formal remedial training. Such training does not
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General Order 4-14
January 29, 2020
preclude an officer from engaging in any additional
informal practice or training sessions that the member
may deem necessary.
b.

The officer shall be given additional attempts to
demonstrate proficiency within a 30 day period of
time. A written report shall be forwarded to the Chief
of Police concerning any officer who fails to re-qualify
within a 30-day period of time. The report shall
include the training officer's recommendations for
corrective action.

c.

Failure to successfully complete training

d.

Failure to successfully achieve certification shall lead
to the officer having their authority to carry the less
lethal weapon revoked.

e.

The instructor will immediately notify the appropriate
Commander of the officers’ failure to successfully
complete training.

f.

There will be a regular review and annual analysis of
use of force incidents by the Chief of Police or
designee. The review will identify patterns or trends
that could indicate training needs and/or policy
modifications.

Members are not authorized to carry blackjacks, slapjacks or other
similar devices.

4.14.08

FIREARMS QUALIFICATIONS
Proficiency training must be monitored by a certified weapons instructor
who has been approved by the Allentown Police Department.
1.

All officers must obtain a passing score during each firearms
qualification period.
a.

On at least an annual basis, all members shall receive
and shall be required to demonstrate understanding
of the law and agency policy and procedures relating
to the use of force

b.

Officers shall be allowed at least two (2) attempts to
qualify on any given day using each authorized
firearm. Officers who fail to qualify with any authorized
firearm on the 3rd attempt shall be subject to remedial
training. Officer shall be assigned to administrative
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January 29, 2020
duty and their issued firearms held in the Armory until
cleared by the Lead firearms instructor.
2.

3.

Remedial Training Requirements
a.

The member’s Commander shall be notified and shall
promptly arrange for a period of formal remedial
firearms training. Such training does not preclude an
officer from engaging in any additional informal
practice or training sessions that the officer may deem
necessary.

b.

The officer shall be given additional attempts to requalify within a 30-day period of time. A written report
shall be forwarded to the Chief of Police concerning
any officer who fails to re-qualify. The report shall
include the training officer's recommendations for
corrective action.

All members are required to successfully complete the
Department Qualification course with their primary service
handgun.
a.

Any officer who fails to qualify and comply with the
qualification schedule with the primary service
handgun will have their actions reviewed by the Chief
of Police, or designee. The review will determine the
corrective action to be taken. Officers shall be
assigned to administrative duty and their issued
firearm held at the Armory until cleared by the Lead
firearms instructor.

b.

Officers must qualify with their primary service
handgun and additional firearms (as appropriate)
following return to duty after a leave of absence of
more than 180 days. This shall be completed within a
reasonable period of time following return to duty.

c.

Officers are required to qualify using additional
proficiency standards established by the Chief
Training Officer. These include, but are not limited to:

d.

i.

Proficiency testing at night and/or in
reduced light situations,

ii.

In combat simulation,

iii.

When using both weak and strong
hands.

Officers assigned to, or serving with, tactical units
shall be guided by and subject to firearms training and
qualifications standards promulgated by their Unit
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January 29, 2020
Commander.
e.

4.

5.

6.

The Sergeant assigned to the Allentown Police
Academy will be responsible for maintaining a
department inventory record on each weapon
authorized for use by department personnel.

Patrol Rifle
a.

All officers are required to successfully complete the
Allentown Police Department Qualification course on
a schedule approved by the Chief of Police or his
designee using the patrol rifle.

b.

Any officer who fails to qualify and comply with the
qualification schedule with the patrol rifle will have
their actions reviewed by the Chief of Police or
designee. That review will determine the corrective,
remedial training, or disciplinary action to be taken.

c.

Officers may be exempted from qualification with the
patrol rifle for medical reasons with the approval of
the Chief of Police, or his designee. Officers
exempted will not be authorized to use the patrol rifle.
Officers exempted will be required to provide medical
documentation annually.

Shotgun
a.

All officers who are certified as shotgun
Operators/Instructors shall undergo an annual
qualification with the shotgun under the supervision of
an Allentown Police Academy Firearms Instructor.

b.

Any shotgun certified officer who fails to qualify and
comply with the qualification schedule with the
shotgun will have their actions reviewed by the Chief
of Police, or designee. The review will determine the
corrective action to be taken. Officers will be
prohibited from deploying with the shotgun until
cleared by the lead firearms instructor.

Secondary Service Handgun / Off-Duty Handgun
a.

Members who desire to carry a personal handgun on
or off duty must obtain an official approval from the
Chief of Police, which lists the type of weapon, make,
model, caliber, serial number and any other pertinent
information prior to carrying the weapon.

b.

All handguns intended for use as a secondary service
weapon and/or off-duty weapon shall be inspected
and approved by the Lead firearms instructor prior to
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qualification.
c.

Officers must qualify annually with the secondaryservice handgun/off-duty handgun on a course and
schedule approved by the Chief of Police.
Qualification shall be documented on the Request to
Carry Firearm form. Members shall not carry a
secondary/off-duty weapon unless they have qualified
during the current qualification period.

d.

Any officer who fails to qualify will not be authorized to
carry or use the secondary service handgun / off-duty
handgun.

e.

Minimum specifications for approval of a secondary
service / off-duty handgun and ammunition are:

f.

i.

Pistols: Not less than .25 caliber and not more
than .45 caliber.

ii.

Revolvers: Not less than .22 caliber and not
more than .44 magnum caliber.

iii.

Ammunition shall be jacketed hollow point
bullets.

iv.

The weapon must be constructed with an
active or passive safety system.

Back-up / Secondary Handgun authorizations shall be
placed in members’ official personnel file.

Appendix A Use of Force Continuum is copyrighted by Protective Safety Systems

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