How to Detain a Suspect

When detaining a suspect there are several procedures that need to be followed to make a legal  detention. This is an example of general procedures due to the fact that it may vary by department for what procedures Officers must follow. First to place someone in detention the Officer must have reasonable suspicion or feel threatened for his/her safety.

Once the Officer has a reason to detain a suspect, the Officer will command the suspect to turn away from the sound of his/her voice.Next the Officer will command the suspect to place their hands on their head and to separate their feet. The Officer will then approach the suspect on a 45 degree angle to which ever side the Officer feels comfortable. Once the Officer is positioned they will then place a restraint on one hand at a time behind the suspects back. When placing the restraints on a suspect make sure that the handcuffs are positioned with the key holes facing down and the double lock facing the Officer to allow for easy access (See diagram for reference). After placing the restraints on the suspect the Officer must double lock the restraints to ensure that the handcuffs do not tighten unintentionally. From this point the Officer can search or transport the suspect safely.