There are many rules and procedures to follow
You would think the use of handcuffs would be a straightforward and easy thing to deal with. However the use of handcuffs is fraught with danger. Police should only use them as a last resort and not the first resort after arrest.
The use of handcuffs can cause injury, pure and simple. There are some standard operating procedures that should be followed when using handcuffs. First of all, they are a temporary restraining device and should never be used long term. Even in the short term, an officer needs to carry out checks on the suspect’s hands and wrists to make sure they are not causing pain or injury. It would be wise to remember that although handcuffs are a restraint a suspect should still be considered a threat even whilst restrained.
An officer needs to have his or her handcuffs easily accessible so they can be used immediately. Whilst carrying handcuffs an officer should have them in a covered case, but where it can easily be retrieved. handcuffs should be stored in a ‘loaded’ position, as they are then ready for use. Most sets of handcuffs will have two keys and an officer should carry both sets of keys with them, one for removal of cuffs and one somewhere safe in their duty belt for emergency use. In most circumstances, an officer would handcuff a suspect then search them for or anything that could be used to pick the handcuffs lock.
An officer needs to consider several things when contemplating the use of handcuffs. They need to watch for sudden movements, and if possible approach the suspect from the rear or side. In nearly all circumstances, a suspect should have their hands cuffed behind their backs. The few exceptions to this rule would be a pregnant suspect, a disabled or handicapped suspect or a juvenile. Once the suspect is in the handcuffs, an officer should double lock the cuffs, as this will ensure the suspect cannot pick the lock.
The injuries reported after handcuffs have been used are skin chaffing, nerve damage and damage to the soft tissue. This is why officers tend to be reluctant to use handcuffs to restrain people, they are very aware of the potential dangers of them. There is actually a recognized condition called Restraint Asphyxia Death, and whilst it is rare, a suspect will die from this after being restrained there are reported cases of it. Another very important thing an officer should never do is handcuff a suspect to himself or herself, a vehicle or a fixed object.
Officers have various tools in their crime fighting arsenals and handcuffs are just one of them. You may not agree with their use but they are not used to belittle a person or ridicule them. The officers do have valid reasons for use and they will continue to use them in a safe and practiced way. Officers should never assume they are always doing something right and regular refresher training and procedure updates should be given.
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