Crowd Management BLET: 28 TITLE: CROWD MANAGEMENT Lesson Purpose: To familiarize the student with the psychological aspects of crowds and present procedures used by law enforcement officers to control crowds, demonstrations, and civil disorders. Training Objectives: At the end of this block of instruction, the student will be able to achieve the following objectives in accordance with information received during the instructional period: 1. Identify the three different classes of crowds and give an example of each. 2. Describe the differences between a casual crowd and a mob. 3. Using a crowd estimator table, determine the approximate size of a crowd. 4. Identify the duties of a law enforcement officer when patrolling a potentially violent demonstration or labor dispute. 5. Identify the primary duties of a law enforcement officer at a nonviolent (passive) protest. 6. Demonstrate proper crowd control formations, using the riot baton to control/restrain crowd movement. 7. Describe and demonstrate the various methods for deploying chemical munitions. Hours: Twelve (12) Instructional Method: Lecture/Demonstration/Practical Exercise Materials Required: Training Aids: Pen/Pencil/Paper Lesson Outline Overhead Projector Transparencies Chemical Munitions Riot Helmets - 1 per participant Gas Masks - 1 per participant Riot Batons- 1 per participant Basic Law Enforcement Training Hypermedia 1 Crowd Management Chalkboard/Chalk Flexcuffs (2 per participant) Riot Shields (1 per participant) Video: Anatomy of a Riot, Arts & Entertainment Video (1992) References: Applegate, Rex. Riot Control Materials and Techniques. Harrisburg, PA: Stackpole Corp., 1969. Chemical Munitions Instructor Manual. Rockcreek, OH: Def-Tec Corp., 1992. Chemical Munitions Training Course Summary. Hart Valley, MD: AAI Corp., 1988. ACivil [email protected] Basic Law Enforcement Training. Salemburg, NC: N. C. Justice Academy, 1994. Civil Disorder - Mobile Tactics. Los Angeles Sheriff=s Dept., 1994. Crockett, Thompson S. Police Chemical Agents. Washington, D.C.: IACP, 1969. International Association of Chiefs of Police. Riot Control Tactics for New Urban Violence. Virginia: IACP. Martinez v. Kilday, 117 S.W.2d 151 (Texas Court of Civil Appeals, 1938). The Safe and Effective Use of the Tear Gas Dispensing System. Hart Valley , MD: AAI Corp., 1988. Prepared By: Hank Snyder Instructor/Coordinator North Carolina Justice Academy Officer David Thaw Charlotte-Mecklenburg Police Department Sgt. Andy Russell Greensboro Police Department Date Prepared: August 1997 Date Revised: October 1998 Reviewed By: Kathy Moore Basic Law Enforcement Training Hypermedia 2 Crowd Management Agency Legal Specialist North Carolina Justice Academy Date Reviewed: December 1998 January 2000 Basic Law Enforcement Training Hypermedia 3 Crowd Management TITLE: CROWD MANAGEMENT - INSTRUCTOR NOTES The purpose of this block of instruction is to familiarize the student with the organization, development, and proper execution of riot control, dispersal, and arrest techniques. Crowd dispersal and arrest exercises will provide the student with the basic skills to safely and successfully participate and conduct similar operations in their jurisdictions. Careful planning and coordination of events cannot be overemphasized. This is particularly true during mock riot or mock civil disturbance and arrest exercises. Due to the number of students playing the role of officers and the number of others playing the role of an unruly crowd, it is recommended that a safety monitor be appointed to work with the role players of the unruly crowd, while the instructors work with all the students. If possible, it is recommended that the students be exposed to live chemical munitions while the mock riot exercises are being conducted. If live chemicals are not used then inert agents should be used. It is important that safety devices to protect the eyes and facial areas be provided to the role players. Please refer to the practical exercise guidelines. Instructors should review all applicable OSHA regulations for gas mask and other munition exercises. Basic Law Enforcement Training Hypermedia 4 Crowd Management PRACTICAL EXERCISE GUIDELINES: PASSIVE PROTEST A. Purpose These exercises are intended to provide the students with an opportunity to observe, practice, and perform the following training objective: Be able to properly handcuff, lift, and transport a passive protestor by using flexcuffs and stretchers. B. C. D. Exercise Conditions 1. These exercises should be conducted after the classroom lecture has been completed and prior to the exposure to any chemical agents. 2. These exercises should take approximately 15-30 minutes depending on class size. 3. These exercises can take place either outdoors or indoors. 4. All students should participate in these exercises. Personnel and Equipment 1. One primary instructor can conduct these exercises. 2. At least one stretcher is needed for the entire class. 3. Each student should have at least two flexcuffs in order to participate in these exercises. 4. One set of cutters is required. Procedures for Conducting This Exercise 1. Divide the students into equal groups and pair off into arrest teams. 2. Give specific instructions of how to use flexcuffs and how to properly pick up a stretcher. 3. Lay the stretcher out in front of one group. 4. Have one student act as a passive arrestee by sitting on the ground with legs crossed. Using two arrest teams at a time, have students take turns placing flexcuffs on the arrestee, placing the arrestee on a stretcher, and carrying the arrestee to another group. 5. Basic Law Enforcement Training Hypermedia 5 Crowd Management 6. Group two then performs the same exercise. 7. Continue until all students have rotated through the exercise. NOTE: In order to save time, each student in the arrest team can place flexcuffs on the arrestees. Therefore, the arrestees will have two sets of flexcuffs on his/her wrists. E. Evaluating the Exercise The instructor should evaluate the student=s performance based on the following: 1. Proper use of flexcuffs, i.e., proper position on wrists, proper restrictiveness (not too loose or too tight). 2. Proper lifting techniques, i.e., lifting with legs and not back. Basic Law Enforcement Training Hypermedia 6 Crowd Management PRACTICAL EXERCISE GUIDELINES: FORMATIONS, CHEMICAL AGENTS AND MOBILE TACTICS A. Purpose These exercises are intended to provide the student with an opportunity to observe, practice, and perform the following training objective: Demonstrate proper crowd control formations, using the riot baton, shields, and the use of mobile tactics. B. Exercise Conditions 1. The exercise should be conducted after the classroom lecture has been completed. 2. A specific site location is required for the exercises. A street location is the best site, however, an open field or parking lot may be used for traditional foot formations. A paved area must be used for mobile tactics. 3. Students need one hour of practice and familiarization time to become accustomed to the various offensive and defensive techniques associated with the use of riot batons and shields. 4. The instructor should have a pre-planned idea about what type of scenario should be given to each respective team based on the tactic used. a. Traditional crowd dispersal operation using the riot baton. (Time - 30 minutes) b. A second scene should be conducted with the aid of inert chemical agents. (Time - 30 minutes) c. A third experience should be conducted using the riot shield, associated with arrest teams movement. (Time - 30 minutes) d. The gas mask procedures should be initiated at various stages of the exercise to give the student the opportunity to perfect masking and unmasking skills. e. Mobile tactics require the operation of police vehicles and should not be conducted until the students have completed defensive driving. This segment is divided into four distinct exercises. (Time required - 2 hours) (1) Field force mobile response requiring students to move with their vehicles as a unit, and then dismount and form up using traditional crowd control formation. Basic Law Enforcement Training Hypermedia 7 Crowd Management f. 5. C. Enhanced mobile tactics - requiring the use of vehicles moving in conjunction with formation movement. (3) Mobile rescue techniques demonstrates the three unit L.A. Model and the two unit Miami Model. Arrest teams working in conjunction with the various formations should be utilized to show the student the efficiency of unit action. (Time - 1 hour) Chemical Agents: A demonstration of the various chemical agents used for crowd control and dispersal operation should be demonstrated under field conditions. This allows the students to see and experience first hand the effects, capabilities, and limitations of the various systems and munitions. This exercise includes the controlled exposure exercise and decontamination time. (Time - 2 hours) Personnel and Equipment 1. One primary instructor can conduct the classroom lecture and direct the student exercises outdoors. 2. The field exercises will require an additional instructor to monitor the role players and assist in coordinating the various field elements. 3. Students must have the following equipment to successfully complete the exercise: Ž Ž Ž Ž Ž D. (2) Riot helmets Riot batons Riot shields Gas masks Vehicles Procedures for Conducting the Exercise 1. 2. Divide the students into squads of eight to twelve in each squad. Arrest teams should be designated and should consist of no less than three students and no less than six students. 3. Students should be divided into two groups when conducting unprotected chemical exposure. One student is masked while his/her partner is unmasked. This is necessary for safety reasons. Once the first student has recovered from the exposure, then switch roles. Basic Law Enforcement Training Hypermedia 8 Crowd Management E. Evaluating the Exercise The instructor should evaluate the ability of the class to perform the task based on the following: 1. The ability to demonstrate the various crowd control formations. 2. Team work. 3. The ability to control and/or restrain crowd movement. 4. The ability to properly use the gas mask. 5. The proper techniques for dismounting from patrol vehicles. 6. The ability to use patrol vehicles during mobile tactics. Basic Law Enforcement Training Hypermedia 9 Crowd Management TITLE: CROWD MANAGEMENT I. Introduction A. Opening Statement NOTE: Reveal opening slide ACrowd [email protected] Freedom of speech and the right to lawful assembly are guaranteed by the First Amendment of the United States Constitution. Similarly, every state in the Union by its constitution, protects these rights. Unfortunately, our history is marked with incidents where these rights have been abused, resulting in mobs and riots that left death and destruction in their wake. B. Training Objectives NOTE: Click on right arrow throughout to reveal ATraining [email protected] C. Reasons NOTE: Click on right arrow to reveal ATasks may range . . [email protected] In day-to-day activities the officer will find himself engaged in duties related to crowd control. These tasks may range from controlling a curious group of bystanders at the scene of an accident to the possibility of a hostile crowd bent on riot and destruction. The officer must be equipped with knowledge to handle this wide spectrum of protection of life and property. II. Body A. Crowds 1. As law enforcement officers, we generally view our actions as one-on-one with those persons who break the law. We must learn to see our actions on a broader plane, especially when taking action in a group setting. Actions taken by an individual officer--right or wrong--can be viewed negatively by a group and ultimately lead to civil unrest. Officers should not ignore unlawful behavior, but should use tact and diplomacy when confronted by a crowd. This lessens the possibility of hostile group attack and gives the officer time to consolidate resources to help diffuse or disperse a crowd before a problem develops. 2. A crowd is best described as a number of persons temporarily congregated in an area. Crowds form for many different reasons. Individuals usually Basic Law Enforcement Training Hypermedia 10 Crowd Management have no common bond other than their curiosity of an event. There are also planned crowd activities such as political rallies. 3. B. Normally, crowds are orderly, lawful in their actions, and not endangering life or property . This type of crowd situation does not present a major problem to law enforcement officials. Types of Crowds NOTE: Click on right arrow to reveal [email protected] NOTE: Click on word [email protected] to reveal text; click on text to make it disappear. 1. The physical crowd a. A physical crowd is characterized by density of contact and showing no significant group behavior. The physical crowd has little or no organization, no unity of purpose, and its members come and go. (Example: mall or major festival type event) b. One type of physical crowd is the conventional crowd or casual crowd. This crowd is characterized by density of contact showing no significant group behavior. They are, however, usually assembled for a purpose but have no common bond and are not dependent on each other.1 NOTE: Click on word [email protected] to reveal text; click on text to make it disappear. 2. The psychological crowd The psychological crowd is an assemblage of people who have a sustained common interest and respond emotionally to the same stimuli. (Example: ball game, political speech, parades, fires, accidents or disturbances) Types of psychological crowds a. Sightseer or sightseeing crowd This crowd is characterized by their common bond (a single purpose for being at a certain place). They are curiosity seekers, mostly cooperative, and sometimes anxious to assist. Officers must retain their cooperation while attempting to disperse them. Basic Law Enforcement Training Hypermedia 11 Crowd Management b. Expressive or agitated crowd Members of the expressive crowd are involved in some kind of Aexpressive behavior,@ such as a block party or political rally. This type of crowd is emotionally involved and can easily become agitated if approached improperly. For the most part, they want to Ahave a good [email protected] or express their point of view. If possible, and as long as there is no breach of peace, it is best to let the crowd release their energies by permitting them to express themselves. Officers must be aware of the emotional climate of this group in order to find a way to reduce the emotional level and successfully disperse the crowd. Otherwise, officers risk the possibility of turning the crowd into an aggressive and destructive mob. Expressive or agitated crowds are an unorganized group of people willing to be led into lawlessness but hesitate to act because it lacks (1) organization, (2) courage, and (3) unity. They are noisy, willing to threaten and taunt or harass police; however, they refrain from physical attack.2 3. Mob (hostile/aggressive) A mob is a crowd whose members, under the stimulus of intense excitement and agitation, lose their sense of reason. They can also lose respect for sense of order, law, and respect for each other.3 NOTE: Click on right arrow to reveal ATypes of [email protected] Types of mobs: a. Escape mob A highly emotionally charged crowd driven by fright describes the escape mob. People involved are driven by an overpowering fright which creates an emotional, unreasonable, and frantic behavior driving the crowd to seek safety. This type of mob is extremely difficult to control because the group, even though together and acting as one, is interested in individual survival. b. The aggressive mob This is a mob that will attack, riot, and terrorize others. The aim of the mob is the destruction of property and physical attacks on persons. c. Acquisitive mob Basic Law Enforcement Training Hypermedia 12 Crowd Management This a mob who has the desire to acquire something. (Example: food or merchandise as in the looting type mob) d. Expressive mob The expressive mob is a group expressing intense feelings or revelry. Usually follows some special event. (Example: New Year=s Eve, major sporting event such as the Detroit Pistons riot on June 16, 1990, when seven were killed during the crowds rampage.) This type of mob can be very destructive. 4 C. Social/Psychological Influences Psychological behavioral factors are present in any crowd confrontation. These factors affect the crowd as well as law enforcement personnel. Knowledge and appreciation of social/psychological influences can help control forces effectively counter riot tactics, help with crowd dispersal, and help supervisors maintain control of their subordinates. These behavioral factors not only affect a crowd, but they affect control forces as well. NOTE: Click on right arrow to reveal ACrowd Behavioral [email protected] NOTE: Click on first hand icon. 1. Anonymity The feeling of being lost in the crowd. Members of the crowd feel they cannot be identified. Therefore, they lose responsibility for their actions. NOTE: Click on second hand icon. 2. Universality The Aeverybody is doing [email protected] feeling. Members feel the attitudes and emotions are being experienced and are shared by everyone in the group. NOTE: Click on third hand icon. 3. Inability to withdraw Being afraid to express a view contrary to those in the majority. NOTE: Click on fourth hand icon. 4. Increased hostility (Convergence Theory) Basic Law Enforcement Training Hypermedia 13 Crowd Management When people are frustrated and believe they are being treated unfairly, confrontation is an outlet for their anger; however, conflict does not eliminate the problem and it often increases hatred between social groups. According to this theory, people merely reveal their true selves in a crowd-the crowd serving only as excuse or a trigger. NOTE: Click on fifth hand icon. 5. Social suggestion The urge to do what others do is quite strong with the majority of people. Crowd people tend to follow the lead of others, particularly those designated as leaders. Those involved usually have a common denominator that brings them together to unify the group. NOTE: Click on sixth hand icon. 6. Emotional contagion (Contagion Theory) This is the most dramatic feature of collective behavior where excitement seems to be [email protected] from one person to another. Emotional contagion provides the crowd with psychological unity and the point at which a crowd or assemblage becomes a mob.5 D. Role of the Rumor NOTE: Click on right arrow to reveal ARole of the [email protected] The rumor is the characteristic mode of communication in a collective behavior setting. Rumors can be defined as communication through people caught up in an ambiguous situation who try to make a meaningful sense of it by relying on their perceptions and intellect. 1. A rumor is a progressive distortion of an originally accurate statement. 2. Rumor plays a major part in crystallizing public opinion. 3. Some experts have said that no riot takes place without a build-up through rumor. 4. Animosity is gradually intensified preceding a riot by stories of aggressive acts on the part of the opposition. 5. Rumors often follow controversial encounters between a member of a minority group and a white police officer. These rumors are often more important than the incident. Basic Law Enforcement Training Hypermedia 14 Crowd Management Example: The Watts Riots of the 1960's began because of a [email protected] police were beating a pregnant black [email protected] The facts were that an arrest had been made, but the arrestee was neither pregnant nor was she beaten. Subsequent confrontation between citizens and the police lead to further confrontations where the police either withdrew because they were not prepared to deal with the crowds, or they were made to appear helpless. 6. E. Rumors must be countered! When a rumor begins to surface, every effort must be made to communicate the truth. This can be accomplished by effectively using community contacts, i.e., community advisor , community leaders, community policing efforts, and the press to get the facts out into the community. Types of Disturbances There are five (5) general types of disturbances and civil unrest which may be confronted by law enforcement officers. NOTE: Click on right arrow to reveal ATypes of [email protected] Items listed below will appear in animation and automatically. 1. Mass demonstration This type of demonstration usually involves hundreds or thousands of people, many of whom may be nonviolent and within their rights to protest; but because of their numbers, they can overwhelm the capabilities of law enforcement agencies. (Example: protest march) 2. Civil disobedience This involves a group that is usually nonviolent and uses tactic and posture that place them in a position to be arrested by law enforcement agencies. This places the law enforcement agency in a very awkward position because of the nonviolent approach taken. It is usually a highly visible action and often has extensive media coverage. (Example: operation rescue demonstration, student takeovers on college campuses) 3. Labor disorder a. Picket lines Most unrest and violence relating to a labor dispute traditionally center on the picket line activity. The most common forms of labor violence are scuffles at picket lines between strikers and nonstrikers. Violence may involve threats and intimidation as well as some physical form of attack. b. Transportation dispute Basic Law Enforcement Training Hypermedia 15 Crowd Management In a labor dispute involving the transportation industry, the violence may be more widespread and incidents may occur incidentally or simultaneously in a very wide geographical area. 4. Idealistic protest These usually involve fanatically dedicated participants, usually young males who are not deterred by the threat of arrest or use of force. 5. Riot A riot is an uncontrolled and violent disturbance of the public peace by three or more persons joined together for a common purpose. (Example: recent L.A. riots) a. Conventional mob riot This classic type of riot is the climate of violence which is caused by the rampage of a spontaneously formed mob. b. Race riot A Atrue race [email protected] is open warfare between those of different ethnic or religious groups. Rumor plays a key role in this type of riot-used to influence. Once the stage is set, only a spark (incident) is required to ignite the group into a bloody war. The target is the [email protected] group. Traditional crowd/riot control techniques have limited effectiveness in this setting because law enforcement is usually caught between groups who may be armed. c. Organized/Planned riot A planned riot occurs when a mob is deliberately assembled and incited to riot. They utilize a key instigator with predetermined followers. They are used to enhance the ideas of the instigator and destroy the police department=s reputation. As a result, the public loses faith in the police, which hurts police morale and makes them hesitant and unsure of themselves. Basic Law Enforcement Training Hypermedia 16 Crowd Management d. Guerrilla riot Their actions are not those of the mob but rather those of a guerrilla army or terrorist group. Their prime target is the police, and they use ambush techniques to accomplish their goals. Conventional riot control countermeasures are useless in this type of encounter. This is true urban warfare involving guns, grenades, explosives, etc. e. Spontaneous riot Confrontations just don=t happen. Some force or event must occur to Aset [email protected] a group. Officers responding to loud party calls or to gatherings outside night spots can become targets, particularly if the officers= actions are viewed as improper by the group. Such actions may be a simple arrest, closing down a loud party, or clearing the street. Note: In 1964 and 1965, the Rochester, Pennsylvania and L.A. Watts Riots were all ignited from [email protected] police arrests on busy streets where crowds spontaneously gathered and fused together. These incidents occurred rapidly; however, they did not erupt into widespread civil unrest for hours. In contrast, today=s incidents grow out of control in as little as 15 minutes. The 1992 L.A. Riot that began at the intersection of Florence and Normandy spread rapidly through the city=s south side. 6 NOTE: Show video Anatomy of a Riot (44 minutes). Discuss the scope of attacks on people and how they changed from beating to killing those singled out for the attack. F. Mental Preparation of Officers A special need exists to prepare individuals for the mental and physical stress of civil disturbance control operations. Officers must be made aware of the influence of psychological factors upon their own behavior. Basic Law Enforcement Training Hypermedia 17 Crowd Management 1. Individual response to stress Officers engaged in civil disturbance operations will encounter the noise and confusion created by large numbers of people facing them. Individuals may shout at, insult, or call officers abusive names. Officers must learn to ignore these taunts and not allow personal feelings to interfere with the execution of their mission. In addition, officers can expect objects to be thrown at them, but must learn to avoid thrown objects by evasive movements. They must never throw the objects back. Officers must subdue their emotions and carry out their orders determinedly and professionally. NOTE: Make a point that officers should understand that the welldisciplined execution of orders is the most effective force applied against rioters. 2. Psychological influences Just as the crowd may be swept into violence by various psychological influences, the reaction of officers may be inappropriate because of the same factors. Both the law enforcement commanders and the officers must be aware of these factors so that they can cope with them in the civil disturbance environment. G. a. The cumulative effect of these psychological factors may be an excessive response by officers who are often thrust into situations with little time to brief them about the situation. b. The fatigue factor must also be taken into consideration in determining the ability of the control force personnel to deal with provocation. In situations where the control forces become extremely emotionally involved, the supervisors may lose control over the officers= actions. c. Emotional involvement - Officer focuses in on one demonstrator and targets this person for uses of force and/or arrest. Supervisors must be vigilant for such behavior and pull these officers off the line and put them in a support role, until they regain their composure - Aa cooling off [email protected] Estimating Crowd Size NOTE: Click on right arrow to reveal AEstimating Crowd [email protected] The development of an accurate crowd estimate is an important part of demonstration control. Since the demonstration to some extent is a media event designed to call public attention to a cause or controversy, its success or failure may Basic Law Enforcement Training Hypermedia 18 Crowd Management tend to be measured by the number of participants it was able to attract. Under these circumstances, widely divergent estimates of crowd size might be expected from sources either in support of or in opposition to the demonstration. Therefore, journalists turn to the police for professional, objective estimate of crowd size. If the crowd estimate results in numbers that either exaggerate or belittle the demonstration, citizens may feel that the police are biased on the issue and have betrayed their professional objectivity. Accurate crowd estimates are not difficult to produce--whether the method for producing the estimate relies on a single experienced observer or makes use of aerial reconnaissance and skilled photo interpreters, ultimately the process comes down to counting and multiplying within a set of reasonable variables. 1. The mobile crowd An observer is stationed at a convenient location along the parade route. The number of persons in each of the first few ranks of the parade are counted as they pass in order to establish an average. The total number of ranks is then recorded as the parade passes. If the parade thins out toward the end, the number of persons per rank is adjusted accordingly. The total number of parade ranks is then multiplied by the number of persons per rank, and the crowd estimate is complete. It is preferable to use two observers stationed at different positions along the parade route to obtain the crowd estimate. The two totals are compared and evaluated before an official figure is released. 2. The stationary crowd Stationary crowd estimates are more difficult. Sometimes the geographic configuration of the meeting place can make the crowd appear to be larger or smaller. For example, a favorite spot for outdoor political speeches near the Capitol Building in Washington, D.C. is a natural bowl which requires viewers to assemble in ascending ranks on a grassy slope before the speaker. When televised from this perspective, crowds appear to be much larger and more impressive. Estimating the stationary crowd is also basically a matter of counting and multiplying. When the crowd is relatively small, perhaps up to 1,000 persons, the estimator simply counts to some workable number like 50 persons, locks an imaginary frame around the space occupied by that number of persons, then proceeds to count the time that he can move that same imaginary frame over the entire crowd. Ten frames equal 500, and so on. Basic Law Enforcement Training Hypermedia 19 Crowd Management When the crowd is larger, it is preferable for the estimator to work with a fixed frame or fixed grid, in which the crowd is estimated relative to its density within that known space. The grid, for instance, might be projected as the size of a football field or a basketball court or the length of a city block. Experience with these known space grids in various cities has produced some formulas for estimating crowd size relative to density within the grid. For example, a densely packed crowd is one in which five persons occupy each square yard of space. A densely packed crowd occupying the length of a city street for one block will number approximately 10,000 persons. A loosely packed crowd, in which one person occupies each square yard, will fill up the same city street with just 2,000 persons. The ideal means for observing and estimating large crowds within grids is by aerial reconnaissance, probably by helicopter. Observers positioned atop a building in the assembly area can approximate the accuracy of a helicopter observation. Lacking even that opportunity, a high ground or elevated position should be sought. The figure shows estimates of crowd size relative to density within several known grids. NOTE: Refer to handout, ATable for Crowd Size [email protected] When a large demonstration is expected and assembly ground has been set aside as a result of cooperative negotiation, measured grids can be marked in advance in such a way as to assist observation by helicopter or from some other vantage point.7 H. Duties of Law Enforcement at Potentially Violent Demonstration or Labor Dispute NOTE: Click on right arrow to reveal ADuties of Law Enforcement at [email protected] 1. Crowd and demonstration control NOTE: Click on right arrow to reveal a portion of the paragraph below. A crowd generally is aware of the law and usually respects the principles of law and order. However, often emotions become so high that they overrule order. In confronting a crowd, law enforcement should know the reason for the meeting, determine the general characteristics of the individuals (and the crowd), and know well the area in which the crowd gathers. One popular method of controlling factors which affect emotions is to have a permit system for the registering of meetings and assemblies. In a permit Basic Law Enforcement Training Hypermedia 20 Crowd Management system, organizers must apply for a permit in order to hold meetings or gatherings. In such a situation, the permit issuers (often a law enforcement agency) can set rules and regulations for these meetings that must be followed or the permit may be canceled. Certain elements, such as those discussed below, can be controlled in an effort to prevent their effect on the emotions of the crowd at the meeting. Promoters and organizers can be held legally responsible for the group=s behavior. This encourages the organizer to [email protected] his group to ensure a peaceful meeting. NOTE: Click on right arrow to reveal ACrowd Control [email protected] a. Crowd control plan NOTE: Click on first whistle icon. (1) Observe spectators rather than the event. NOTE: Click on second whistle icon. (2) Avoid unnecessary conversation. NOTE: Click on third whistle icon. (3) Keep outside the crowd. NOTE: Click on fourth whistle icon. (4) b. 2. Identify and watch crowd agitators. Control of lawful demonstrations (1) A lawful demonstration should not be looked upon with disapproval by law enforcement. First Amendment rights must be respected and protected! (2) The visible officers should be kept to a minimum; normal dress should be worn. (3) Proper liaison between law enforcement and the demonstrators often prevents trouble. Characteristics of a riot a. Types of violence NOTE: Click on right arrow to reveal ATypes of [email protected] Basic Law Enforcement Training Hypermedia 21 Crowd Management A riot is mob violence, a contagious striking out at authority and the symbols of authority. It may consist of indiscriminate looting and burning; it may be open attacks on officials, buildings or innocent bystanders; or it may be both. Law enforcement must control group violence. Law enforcement, therefore, must be carefully instructed about the kinds of violence they may encounter. NOTE: Click on first cross hair icon. (1) Verbal and written abuse Anticipate both; the purpose of this tactic is to anger and demoralize law enforcement and cause them to take individual actions that may later be exploited as Apolice [email protected] NOTE: Click on second cross hair icon. (2) Noise This is a two-prong attack. Leaders of unruly crowds use noise to keep the emotions high in the mob. NOTE: Click on third cross hair icon. (3) Attacks on officers and their equipment NOTE: Click on fourth cross hair icon. (4) Thrown objects NOTE: Click on fifth cross hair icon. (5) Moving vehicles NOTE: Click on sixth cross hair icon. (6) Destruction of property and looting NOTE: Click on seventh cross hair icon. (7) Demolitions and explosions NOTE: Click on eighth cross hair icon. (8) Basic Law Enforcement Training Hypermedia Weapons and firearms 22 Crowd Management b. Tactics employed by rioters Conventional mob tactics restricted by area and leadership can be effectively stopped by traditional move, divide, and disperse techniques. There is a new tactic being used now, however, that is designed to counter the measures employed by law enforcement. It thrives on deception, confusion, and the [email protected] theory. The following are some of the tactics employed by Aguerrilla [email protected] 3. (1) Numerous false calls to the fire department to scatter and render fire fighting equipment ineffective. (2) False calls of Aofficer in [email protected] is used to divert law enforcement manpower, or to cause officers to converge on a certain area to attract a large crowd that may be incited to riot. (3) Interfering with a law enforcement officer in his line of duty, forcing him to take action against agitators. Then the cry of Apolice [email protected] is raised. (4) Reliance on emotional appeal to the masses. (5) Blocking or flooding the law enforcement switchboard with false or petty calls. (6) Use of walkie-talkies on citizens bands by mob leaders to control the operations of the mob. (7) There is no limit to mob ingenuity, and officers must recognize the effectiveness of mob psychology as employed by the advocates of violence. Law enforcement operations at a strike scene a. Dynamics of labor disputes The dynamics of a labor dispute are very complex. To better understand the related law enforcement problems involved in this duty, officers should look at several perspectives: free speech, police power at the scene, picketing, employer and nonstriking employees, and access to company property. Basic Law Enforcement Training Hypermedia 23 Crowd Management b. (1) The right of strikers to picket is protected by the courts on the ground that it is a valid expression of freedom of speech. (2) Exercise of the police powers must be reasonable in relation to the actions which it is designed to combat, and must be neither arbitrary nor discriminatory. (3) An employer and his employees who do not strike also have rights to be protected. Under North Carolina law, employees do not have to join a union to be employed or continue to work; therefore, they have a right to work without interference from striking employees. (4) The law is clear that an employer has the legal right of ingress and egress to and from his premises without prior consultation with the picketers; employees, customers, and others seeking to enter or leave the employer's premises also have the right to do so without interference from the picket lines. Duties of law enforcement It is the duty of law enforcement to see to it that the strikers' right to picket and make known their grievances in a legal manner is protected; to see that persons are able to freely exercise their right to enter and leave company premises at will and without regard to the existence of a strike; and to maintain the peace and protect the rights and property of all persons involved. c. Do's for law enforcement NOTE: Click on right arrow to reveal AAt Strike Scenes, Be Sure To . . [email protected] NOTE: Click on first whistle icon. (1) Be totally impartial (neutral) at all times. NOTE: Click on second whistle icon. (2) If you have a close relative or friend involved in the dispute, let your superior know of it; he may determine to temporarily transfer or reassign you. NOTE: Click on right arrow. NOTE: Click on first whistle icon. Basic Law Enforcement Training Hypermedia 24 Crowd Management (3) It is the responsibility of the supervising officer to see to it that necessary information is passed on. The policies and approach of law enforcement personnel at the scene should be consistent. NOTE: Click on second whistle icon. (4) All discussions relative to the dispute situation between or among the officers and either or both of the disputants should take place at the supervisor level and should be taped whenever possible. NOTE: Click on right arrow. NOTE: Click on first whistle icon. (5) Taverns or other places providing alcoholic beverages in the area should be notified of any potential problems involving the purchase and use of alcoholic beverages and asked to assist by being especially watchful for abuses involving alcoholic beverages or the ABC laws. NOTE: Click on second whistle icon. (6) The general public should be kept a safe distance from the area of the dispute, but not so far that the general public is either actually or constructively excluded from viewing and comprehending the substance of the grievance being protested against. A safe distance is a distance that tends to lessen tensions and assure law enforcement clear and safe room for action should violence erupt. Safe distances will vary directly in relation to tensions and dangers attendant at the dispute scene. NOTE: Click on right arrow. NOTE: Click on first whistle icon. (7) Be aware of agitators, professional or other, who may attempt to put law enforcement in a position in which they appear to be taking sides. NOTE: Click on second whistle icon. (8) Basic Law Enforcement Training Hypermedia Give clear and audible instructions when asked directions by a disputant. 25 Crowd Management NOTE: Click on third whistle icon. (9) Keep pedestrian and vehicular traffic on any nearby sidewalks and streets moving. NOTE: Click on right arrow. NOTE: Click on whistle icon. d. (10) Do not engage in unsolicited intelligence or information gathering at the strike scene unless directed to do so through the chain of command; if you do come upon information you feel would be useful, report it through the chain of command. (11) In handling vehicles passing through (or attempting to) a picket line: (a) Have a labor official direct the pickets to clear the entrance, if possible; if not then break the picket line only temporarily as necessary to accomplish the movement. (b) Do not give the impression you are directing vehicles to enter or leave. The driver seeking to enter or leave the picketed premises should be allowed to make his own decision whether to enter or leave. (c) Union officials should be allowed to communicate with the drivers of the vehicles seeking to enter or leave the picketed premises; if the driver of the vehicle refuses to communicate with the union official, that is his right. Don'ts for law enforcement at a strike scene NOTE: Click on right arrow to reveal ADon'[email protected] NOTE: Click on first hand icon. (1) Do not, under any circumstances, discuss the merits of the dispute with any person involved at the dispute. NOTE: Click on second hand icon. Basic Law Enforcement Training Hypermedia 26 Crowd Management (2) Do not become provoked by name calling or derogatory remarks directed at you. NOTE: Click on right arrow. NOTE: Click on first hand icon. (3) Do not at any time go to the scene of the dispute to obtain information unless directed to do so by the chain of command. NOTE: Click on second hand icon. (4) I. Do not discuss an injunction with anyone involved in the dispute. The injunction is civil in nature and should be treated as such. However, if one is issued by a court, you will enforce it as you would any other order of the court if the court directs enforcement.8 Crowd Control Operations There are four (4) crowd control options available based on the desired objective. A prime consideration in selecting an option(s) will be the effect of the response in reducing the intensity of the existing situation. NOTE: Click on right arrow to reveal ACrowd Control [email protected] 1. Monitor This option consists of watching the crowd=s progress and development by control force teams. Monitoring enables the agency to gauge the crowd=s activity and intent in relation to civil disturbance and possibly influence their actions through persuasive means. This option is particularly appropriate for large non-violent demonstrations where more decisive action is not feasible because of the crowd size and where the intensity of the situation might escalate. This option is also appropriate as an interim measure pending arrival of additional control forces. Techniques for accomplishing this option include passive observation of the crowd and communication with leaders on the intent or interest of the group. If the crowd is not out of control, officers should monitor the area to identify leaders and group actions, and to discover possible dispersement alternatives. 2. Containment Basic Law Enforcement Training Hypermedia 27 Crowd Management This option consists of restraining a large number of individuals within the area they are presently occupying, thereby containing any further aggressive activity. This option would be appropriate in college campus situations to prevent demonstrators from spreading out to surrounding communities and to prevent unauthorized personnel from entering the campus. 3. Blocking This option consists of the physical denial of a crowd=s advance upon a facility which is the potential or actual target to dissident activity. Crowd control formations (especially the Askirmish [email protected]) and barricades are the most appropriate techniques for this option. Barricades such as vehicles, traffic barrels, and water or sand-filled barrels can be erected to block or channel the movement of crowds. These devices and water or sand-filled barrels can be erected to block or channel the movement of crowds. These devices, when used in combination with control forces and other crowd control techniques, are useful in accomplishing containment or blocking. 4. Dispersion This option consists of action taken to fragment a crowd and is especially applicable to small crowd situations in a congested urban environment. This selection should include the consideration that such dispersion may increase and spread lawlessness rather than reduce it. Therefore, one should establish control over the dispersal routes; provide security for those facilities that might become likely targets for small groups; and then prepare to follow-up the dispersal operation with the apprehension of small groups still active in the area. Techniques for accomplishing dispersal objectives would include the proclamation, show of force, use of crowd control formations, and the use of riot agents and saturation patrol techniques. 5. Countermeasure operations NOTE: Click on right arrow to reveal ACountermeasure [email protected] NOTE: Click on first hand icon. a. Downtown - Secure rooftops and side streets; having moving patrols and watching for sniper fire are essential. NOTE: Click on second hand icon. b. Residential areas - Same as for downtown areas only security may become an additional problem due to the additional space. Basic Law Enforcement Training Hypermedia 28 Crowd Management NOTE: Click on right arrow. NOTE: Click on first hand icon. c. Barricades - Designed by protesters to impede effective law enforcement action; remove or destroy the barricades; watch for booby traps hidden in barricades. NOTE: Click on second hand icon. d. Looting - Foot patrol teams can effectively deal with this type of activity. NOTE: Click on right arrow. NOTE: Click on hand icon. e. Vital buildings - Law enforcement must gain entry, secure sensitive areas, and initiate action to remove the rioters. NOTE: Click on right arrow. NOTE: Click on first hand icon. f. Teamwork - Stick together; a lone officer is a waste of manpower and merely stimulates the ugly tendencies of the crowd. NOTE: Click on second hand icon. g. J. Post-riot control - Once suppressed, positive action must prevent a recurrence. Try to correct the source of trouble and re-establish normal relations in the community. Use of Force The amount of force used to quell any civil disturbance must be only that force necessary to overcome the actions of the crowd. It is through the controlled application of force that a crowd is dispersed or a disturbance ended. Indiscriminate use of force upon a crowd should never be tolerated or condoned. Regardless of the type of demonstration, the amount of force used must be: NOTE: Click on right arrow to reveal AUse of [email protected] 1. Reasonable Basic Law Enforcement Training Hypermedia 29 Crowd Management 2. Necessary 3. Lawful The force should be applied only long enough to overcome the resistance of another person's force. 9 Example: A riot may require an officer to use either a baton in a striking or thrusting motion or chemical agents. On the other hand, passive/resistant demonstrations may require officers who physically carry the demonstrators away. K. Large Scale Disturbances Large scale disturbances utilize the same techniques as small scale disturbances. The important point between the two is that large scale disturbances require more control force personnel. Supervisors should never attempt to disperse a large crowd with a small number of officers. If there are insufficient control forces on hand to disperse the crowd, efforts should be made to monitor and contain the crowd as well as possible until additional control forces are summoned. This level of activity will require the use of the following response plan: 1. 2. Isolate the area. The primary goal and responsibility is to safeguard lives. a. Restricting access to the affected area effectively seals off the disturbance. The objective of isolation is to prevent the spread of the unrest to unaffected areas, to prevent the escape of individuals identified for arrest, and to evacuate the area of uninvolved persons and keep others out of the area. b. Building clearing - Control forces may be needed to [email protected] buildings in the affected area, checking for trapped, non-involved persons and to identify possible hot spots or buildings requiring special attention, such as gun shops, hardware stores, etc. Isolation techniques There are several techniques for isolating a disturbance area. NOTE: Click on right arrow to reveal AIsolation [email protected] a. Use of barricades. The use of physical barriers would deny or limit entry and exit from the disturbance area. Usually only effective as long as the barricades are manned. Basic Law Enforcement Training Hypermedia 30 Crowd Management L. b. Roadblocks. To be effective, roadblocks must not be easily breached by vehicles. Example, 55-gallon drums filled with water or sand, sandbags, or heavy vehicles are all effective roadblocks. c. Perimeter patrols that operate along the outer boundaries of the affected area can be effective. The purpose is to prevent entry to or exit from the area. Perimeter patrols can also help capture identified ring leaders fleeing the area. Techniques for Crowd Control There are numerous techniques designed to provide agencies with flexibility of action in accomplishing crowd control. Selection may consider a combination of techniques which will produce the desired result within the framework of the selected crowd control option. The most common techniques used are: 1. Observation - This consists of the deployment of teams to the peripheral areas of the crowd for the purpose of monitoring activities. Teams gather information on the crowd size, location and mood, and report on developing situations. 2. Communications of interest and intent - In certain situations, the effective communication with crowd leaders and participants may enable police personnel to control the situation without resorting to more severe action. 3. Cooperation - Active initiation by control forces to obtain the cooperation of group leaders may significantly decrease the potential for disruption of the crowd activity. Proclamation - A proclamation establishes the illegal nature of the crowd=s action and is an excellent medium to make known to the crowd the intent of control forces supervision. The proclamation is also a means of reducing the size of the crowd prior to direct action being taken. In making any proclamation to a crowd, consideration must be given to not stating a definite time for dispersal because the situation may change and this may not leave supervisors free to select alternate courses of action at the time of his/her choosing. 4. 5. Show of force - Marching a well equipped, highly disciplined control force into view of a crowd may be all of the force necessary to persuade them to disperse peacefully. On the other hand, in some situations, such as with idealistically-motivated groups, a show of force may have a counterproductive effect by causing them to become involved in a direct challenge of control forces. Ten well trained officers can effectively disperse 1,000 rioters. Basic Law Enforcement Training Hypermedia 31 Crowd Management 6. Crowd control formation - Crowd control formations, when properly employed and effectively executed against a crowd of a limited size represents one of the most practical methods of crowd control and dispersal. A supervisor must always realize the limits of crowd control formations. When a large crowd has been dispersed, do not assume that members of the crowd have returned to peaceful activity; small groups may initiate dispersed riotous activities, therefore, the use of formation should only be part of a total dispersal effort. Also, if the crowd refuses to move, other techniques may have to be employed, such as the use of riot control agents and physical arrest. 7. Arrest and processing of arrestees a. Arrest teams - All arrest teams will be under the direct supervision of an arrest team supervisor. During times of civil disorder, individual police action will be suspended and arrests will only be made under the direction of a supervisor. Arrest team members will escort prisoners to a central prisoner processing area. b. Processing of arrestees - A point outside the affected area, yet close by, will allow for the quick return of arrest team personnel to maximize their effectiveness. At the arrest processing point, the arresting officer should have his photograph taken with the prisoner for later identification and court purposes. c. Special considerations of arrests During times of civil unrest, physical arrest must be kept to a minimum, not to appease the crowd, but to economize on the limited number of police resources. Therefore, individual police action must be suspended. Supervisors will determine the course of action to include all arrests. Exception: emergency life or death situations. Procedures must also be established to deal with arrestees, transportation, and detainment.10 M. Duties of Law Enforcement at Non-Violent Passive Protest NOTE: Click on right arrow to reveal ADuties at Passive [email protected] As police departments throughout the country continue to improve and update their training in response to violent community disturbances, most do not have a plan of action when dealing with the non-violent or passive protest. Police officers should not respond to passive protests in the same manner as they would for violent Basic Law Enforcement Training Hypermedia 32 Crowd Management protests. Police departments must develop a procedure to deal with this type disturbance. When confronting passive protesters, police officers must be aware of the differences in tactics used by this group as compared to the violent group. The response will be different. Therefore, officers must be exposed to the difference in tactics used. NOTE: Click on right arrow to reveal below text. 1. Passive protests: lawful vs. unlawful Officers must always be aware of state and local laws dealing with lawful protests. The simple fact that a group of individuals is gathering to voice an opinion to gain public sentiment does not necessarily mean that the protest is unlawful. 2. 3. What is lawful? a. Picketing - A way of protesters gaining sympathy and support from the public. (Check local ordinances for procedures and restrictions.) Many ordinances require the picketers to remain a certain distance from the business, as well as remain a certain distance between each other and others opposing the picketers. b. Parades and marches What is unlawful? NOTE: Click on right arrow to reveal AWhat Is [email protected] a. Violence - Involving injury or damage to people or property. b. Blocking entrances - N.C.G.S. 14-277.4 Obstruction of Health Care Facilities - A lawful protest becomes unlawful when protesters move onto the premises and begin to block entrances. NOTE: Tell students to check with local prosecutorial districts as to the use of this statute because it was determined unconstitutional in 1996 by Federal Judge Potter from western North Carolina. It is also an unlawful protest when they enter the premise. N.C.G.S. 2nd Degree Trespass/1st Degree Trespass. 4. Communication and liaisons Basic Law Enforcement Training Hypermedia 33 Crowd Management As with any type of disturbance, it is necessary to maintain open communication with the protesting group. 5. a. Identify the leaders - Once the leaders are identified, it is imperative that open communication be maintained with them. b. Attend group meetings to obtain intelligence information. c. Use informants - infiltrate meetings as a last resort when leaders will not cooperate. Help to identify trouble makers and possible militants. d. Identify local and out of town militants. e. Report to supervisors - any information received must be relayed to departmental supervisors.11 Protester tactics NOTE: Click on right arrow to reveal AProtester [email protected] 6. a. Blocking entrances - protesters may block doorways, loading docks, or delivery entrances. They may stand, sit, or lie. b. Locking arms - they may join arms and make a human chain. c. Padlocking with chains - they may use metal chains and locks to lock themselves to the building. (A bolt cutter is an important item in the equipment truck.) d. Singing and chanting - a common tactic. Adds stress to the officers on the scene. Officers must shout over the singing to give their commands. e. Name calling - protesters will accuse officers of taking sides. (At abortion protests, they have been known to call officers MURDERERS.) Responsibilities and duties a. Remain neutral and impartial - officers must not allow personal beliefs and values to take precedent over upholding the law. b. Maintain your professionalism - don=t allow protesters to incite you with name calling and accusations. c. Be aware of violations - know local and state laws that apply. Basic Law Enforcement Training Hypermedia 34 Crowd Management d. 7. (1) Assaults - on officers, as well as, opposing protesters (2) Trespassing (3) Blocking entrances Keep supervisors aware of conditions and any changes in conditions. Making the arrest The on-scene supervisor will determine when arrests occur and who will be arrested. N. a. Use arrest teams - usually two officers. b. Use flex-cuffs in lieu of metal for mass arrests. Flex-cuffs are convenient and they are viewed by the public as a [email protected] method for handcuffing. c. Use stretchers for carrying prisoners - cuts down on officer and arrestee injuries. d. Photograph and document each arrestee - before moving your prisoner, photograph each arrestee (Polaroid preferable) and record date, time, and name or number of prisoner. e. Videotape entire disturbance. Crowd Control Formations 1. Protective equipment for law enforcement a. Gas masks NOTE: Instructor should demonstrate procedure for use of the protective mask. Allow practice for putting on mask in class and later in formation drills. b. Helmets c. d. Goggles or visors Body armor e. Gloves Basic Law Enforcement Training Hypermedia 35 Crowd Management 2. 3. f. Shin guards g. Boots h. Shields Show and use of force - use only the minimum force to effectively control the situation. a. Officer presence b. Batons/Shields c. Horses d. Dogs e. Vehicles f. Chemical agents g. Firearms Riot control formations NOTE: Click on right arrow to reveal ARiot Control [email protected] NOTE: Refer students to the riot control formations handout. The class should be broken down into squads and the formations practiced in an open area. Allow students to take the formations handout with them for reference in the exercises. O. a. Squad - Not less than eight nor more than twelve officers. One member should be designated as leader. b. Platoon - Should consist of three or four squads. One officer should be designated as leader. Three platoons form one company. c. Formations - The line, the echelon (right and left), the wedge, and the diamond; rapid and uniform response to commands is essential. d. Vehicles - Should be located where they can quickly maneuver to block oncoming vehicular assault on the riot formation. Sniper Action Basic Law Enforcement Training Hypermedia 36 Crowd Management Most law enforcement agencies are not equipped to deal with large scale anti-sniper operations. A police agency paralyzed by sniper fire cannot effectively prevent mob violence from spreading out of control. Specialized units such as SWAT or SRT counter sniper teams must be used to counter this threat. A skilled sniper, using high velocity, scope-sighted firearms, can operate from a distance of 300 yards or more. The range effectively eliminates the sound, leaving only the impact of the round or the sound of the projectile passage to indicate an approximate position. A well concealed sniper using a low-velocity weapon, such as .22 caliber rifle, can fire on a target from a much closer range and still remain relatively safe from police counteraction, especially if the area is engulfed in wild riotous confusion. Note: It takes specially trained counter sniper actions using proven military-type actions to eliminate this type of threat. The average street officer is not equipped to handle this situation. Therefore, whenever this is encountered during crowd control operations, officers should seek cover and call for the assistance of specialized anti-sniper teams to eliminate the threat. NOTE: Sniper as used in this text means any hidden, armed threat. AAn expert rifle marksman is a person who can consistently hit, with his first shot, a target as small as a man=s head (approximately 10 inches) at a distance of up to 300 yards, under varying conditions of light and [email protected] 12 P. Police Counter Action from Sniper Attacks NOTE: Click on right arrow to reveal ASniper [email protected] NOTE: Click on hot word Acontrol,@ then click on text to make it disappear. 1. Control forces When officers are fired upon, they should immediately seek cover and attempt to determine the sniper=s position. SRT supervised counter sniper units will then deal with the threat. When withdrawing from the area, officers should remember the key point: avoid bunching up. Groups of officers bunching together behind the same cover make an excellent target. Remember to use proper cover. NOTE: Click on hot word Areturn,@ then click on text to make it disappear. 2. Return fire Officers must not indiscriminately return fire due to the danger to innocent civilians and other law enforcement personnel. The National Commission on Civil Disorder=s study after the 1960's riots found that most deaths in Basic Law Enforcement Training Hypermedia 37 Crowd Management reported sniping incidents were from bullets fired by either police or National Guard personnel (180). This is not meant to distract from the seriousness of sniping incidents. It is only to note that the potential overreaction to such an incident can further endanger police personnel and innocent bystanders. NOTE: Click on hot word Aofficer,@ then click on text to make it disappear. 3. Officer down In the event an officer is wounded during a sniping incident, he/she should be evacuated as soon as possible. However, any reckless attempt to rescue a downed officer may result in additional casualties. Special Response Teams using protective equipment should be used for such rescues. If unavailable, a rescue should not be attempted without proper equipment and a plan of action. Q. Withdrawal of Control Forces Inevitably there will be times when patrol forces must withdraw from an area because they are overwhelmed by the size of the mob. In doing so, every effort should be made to make a tactical withdrawal from an area. This must be done in an orderly and deliberate fashion. The mob may view a quick withdrawal as a rout or victory. No one advocates Afighting a last [email protected]; however, a retreat can be a moral boost to the mob whose activities can become more intense because they feel Athe power of the [email protected] Control forces should re-enter the area only when sufficient personnel have arrived to deal with the situation or employ more tactically advanced methods or special purpose tactics. If unable to re-enter, isolation of the area is the best option. R. Mobile Tactics Traditional crowd control tactics were developed in the 1960's to meet the threat of civil unrest in large urban areas. This was also a time of limited mobility of the populace, which meant officers had to keep up with the foot pace of the crowds. In today's fast moving society, traditional slow moving, highly predictable tactics make control force personnel vulnerable to attack and flanking movements. These tactics also fatigue officers who must cover great distances on foot, often carrying up to 30+ pounds of equipment, not to mention the heat retention of body armor. The tactics can also be effectively countered by small groups and groups using [email protected] tactics. Mobile concepts are designed to help overcome these obstacles. This concept allows for a rapid, organized, and disciplined response in sufficient numbers to handle most situations quickly and decisively. 1. Current mobile tactics systems in use today: Basic Law Enforcement Training Hypermedia 38 Crowd Management There are two schools of thought involving the mobile concept being used in the United States today. They are the Miami Model and the L.A. County Sheriff's Model. a. The Mobile Field Force Concept - the Miami Model NOTE: Click on right arrow to reveal AMiami [email protected] This system is designed to provide for the rapid, organized, and disciplined response to civil disorder and crowd confrontations. Vehicles move field force personnel from one point to another as rapidly as possible in a unified manner. With this model the parade of patrol units arriving into the areas is effectively the first show of force. This parade may encourage some participants to leave the area, or it may enrage the crowd to act, so the officer should be prepared to deal with either situation. (1) (2) Basic Law Enforcement Training Hypermedia Advantages (a) Isolation of the area (b) Control and dispersal of unruly crowds by a single unified control force (c) Ability to arrest multiple offenders (d) Rescue of officers and citizens by a large number of officers (e) Rapid coordinated movement of the control force from one point to another (f) Use traditional crowd dispersal tactics (g) Excellent blocking deployment techniques Disadvantages (a) Requires personnel to be taken from control force personnel to safeguard equipment (b) Use slow moving conventional tactics once officers dismount from their vehicles (c) Control force must travel on foot, towards the crowd and back to their vehicles before redeploying to another area 39 Crowd Management b. (d) Limited response area, once dismounted (e) Requires large numbers of officers to be effective Integrated Mobile Tactics - The L.A. Model NOTE: Click on right arrow to reveal AL.A. [email protected] This concept allows for more flexibility and rapid movement of personnel. Vehicles are used to not only move officers, they are used to supplement their numbers. Commanders now have more flexibility to cover larger areas, using fewer personnel to achieve the maximum effect quickly. This concept is not a 90 mph approach, rather it is a deliberate movement of patrol cars, driving at speeds of 10 to 15 mph. These speeds give the officers the ability to cover ground quickly, yet it allows rioters time to disperse. (1) (2) Basic Law Enforcement Training Hypermedia Advantages (a) Rapid response (b) Protection from rocks and bottles (c) Built in rest periods (d) More control (e) Cover larger areas quickly (f) More flexibility (g) Requires fewer officers Disadvantages (1) More police vehicles may be damaged (2) Greater risk of accidents (3) Requires more training (4) Takes officers off the line and puts them in the vehicle 40 Crowd Management 2. Mobile tactics are built around squad, which is the basic element of crowd formations, traditional or mobile. Each squad is supervised and controlled by a sergeant. Squads should have twelve (12) members, with the sergeant, driver, and two officers in one unit; the other units have four (4) officers each. Variations can be tailored to meet the manpower of an individual agency or the situation; however, no fewer than two officers per unit should be used. This approach is functional with as few as two (2) officers per patrol unit. This forms squads of at least six (6) officers. 3. Procedure The squad is the smallest element that should confront a crowd. More units or squads should be available to support the initial squad as needed. They can also be used to secure flanks and parallel the contact squad as it moves the crowd, thereby preventing them from being out flanked. 4. a. When commanded to move forward, the initial squad moves toward the crowd with siren, emergency lights, and all other lights on. Speed should be rapid, but slow enough so officers can control their own responses. b. As the squad of vehicles approaches the crowd, the squad leader gives out a dispersal command, such as Askirmish line, [email protected] This is the signal for the lead unit to break to the left and stop, the second unit pulls straight forward, with the third breaking to the right. As the units roll to a stop, parallel to each other, the sirens are turned off and officers quickly dismount to form a skirmish line in front of the patrol units. If the confrontation occurs at night, the headlight should be turned off at this point, so as not to backlight the skirmish line. The blue lights will make the number of officers appear to be moving or may give the illusion that there are more officers than there are. As the officers advance, the drivers of the patrol units move slowly forward with the skirmish line. Leapfrog technique NOTE: Click on right arrow to reveal ALeapfrog [email protected] This technique is used to exploit the initiative gained by the first squad, should the crowd retreat. This procedure requires a minimum of two squads, with one in direct contact with the crowd and the second in support. In order for the second squad to advance, the first squad must create an opening. A command might be ABreak! Break! [email protected] or a blowing of the siren or horn to signal the front quad to break open. This maneuver requires the center of the skirmish line to move to one side, with the center unit advancing until they can pull to one side. This opens the way for the second squad to move forward, until they deploy. The first Basic Law Enforcement Training Hypermedia 41 Crowd Management squad then enters their patrol units and moves forward in a column behind the second squad. This method can be repeated as many times as is necessary to disperse the crowd. 5. Pitchfork technique NOTE: Click on right arrow to reveal APitchfork [email protected] This technique utilizes a full field force and is designed to clear larger areas. Two squads focus on the crowd, while two other units are positioned to each side to flank the center squad. Coordination is a key to the success of this technique. 6. Rescue technique a. Three unit rescue (L.A. Model) NOTE: Click on right arrow to reveal AThree Patrol Car [email protected] Mobile tactics can be used for rescue of officers and citizens in hostile encounters. This technique calls for the squad to advance forward in a column, then forming a horseshoe or open box formation around the victim, where officers dismount, some picking up the victim, with others using chemical munitions or specialty impact munitions to ward off the crowd. Once the victim is placed in the nearest unit, officers remount and withdraw to safety. b. Two patrol unit rescue NOTE: Click on right arrow 4 times to reveal each ATwo Patrol Car Rescues (A, B, C, D)[email protected] A second technique is the two unit approach. Position the first unit at the front of the [email protected] vehicle, at a 45 degree angle--this is the contact unit. The driver and drivers side passenger cover the flank, while the passenger side officers act as the rescuers. Position the second unit at a 45 degree angle at the rear of the [email protected] vehicle or scene, with officers deploying to cover the rescue. The vehicles then back out of the area, keeping the crowd/rioters in front of them.13 S. Use of Chemical Agents The proper use of chemical agents not only helps law enforcement personnel restore order, but reduces the chances for injury to officers and rioters. On the other hand, Basic Law Enforcement Training Hypermedia 42 Crowd Management if used improperly or indiscriminately, chemical munitions can cause injury and possibly death. It can also lead to complaints of excessive force. 14 REMEMBER, the use of chemical agents is considered a use of force. 1. History The use of chemical agents began around the year 2000 B.C., when merchants in India carried ground black pepper in rice paper to ward off muggers. Through the ages man has refined the use of chemical munitions from the use of crude methods, such as the burning of pitch tar by the Spartans to blind and choke their enemies to the chemical agents in use today. 2. Introduction to chemical agents Currently there are four forms of chemical agents used by law enforcement agencies for crowd control. a. HC (Hexachlorethane) - Smoke Even though smoke is not an irritant agent per se, smoke in and of itself is irritating to some people. Smoke is effective when used to break up crowds that are disorderly, but not overtly violent. Smoke can be used for the following purposes: b. (1) Conceal movement (2) Disorient the crowd (3) Determine the wind direction CN (Chloroacetophenone) - discovered in 1869 by a German chemist (1) Odor: like apple blossoms (2) Incapacitation factor: 10 to 20 minutes. CN is a fast acting irritant that affects the upper respiratory passages, lacrimal glands and eyes. The agents usually begin to work in 1 to 3 seconds; however, some people may not be affected for up to 30 minutes. (3) CN is an irritant that does not affect everyone. Those on drugs or alcohol may not be affected by this chemical agent. Basic Law Enforcement Training Hypermedia 43 Crowd Management (4) Physiological effects: Irritating to the skin, causing a burning and itching sensation. Flowing of tears, nose irritation--agents especially affect moist areas of the body. (5) CN is a lacrimal, meaning it affects the lacrimal glands, ducts, and sacs around the eyes and in the nasal and sinus cavities. CS has an added irritant that affects the skin area by causing a burning sensation. NOTE: Click on right arrow to reveal AThe Eye and Lacrimal [email protected] c. CS (Orthochlorbenzalmalononitrile) Developed by the British in 1928 (B.B. Carson and R.W. StroughtonBCS from first initial of each discoverer's last name). CS came to the attention of American officials as a result of its use by the British during civil unrest on the island of Cyprus in 1961. (1) Odor: peppery smell (2) Incapacitating time factor: produces almost immediate effects in 5 to 10 seconds. Effects can last from 10 to 30 minutes. (3) Physiological effects (a) d. (b) Extreme burning of the eyes, accompanied by copious flowing of tears Involuntary closing of the eyes (c) Stinging sensation on moist skin (d) Runny nose, sinus, and nasal drip (e) Tightness in the chest and throat (feels like a heart attack) (f) Dizziness or swimming of the head OC Products - Pepper Mace The use of pepper as an irritant dates back to the year 2000 B.C. OC products are currently limited to mace type dispenser systems. Some field officers are currently carrying this type of agent (Pepper mace and CAP-STUN). Because OC products are to be sprayed directly into the eyes of a subject, they are currently less Basic Law Enforcement Training Hypermedia 44 Crowd Management effective when used like traditional chemical munitions. OC products are very useful in crowd control when used on a controlled scale on specific individuals, such as those identified for arrest by arrest teams. (1) Odor: spicy, peppery smell (2) Incapacitation time factor (3) (4) 3. (a) Acts immediately (b) Almost total incapacitation of subject (c) Incapacitation usually limited to the one sprayed Physiological effects (a) Burning sensation to the eyes (b) Irritation to the nasal passages and throat (c) Tight feeling around the chest OC products cause almost total incapacitation--steps must be taken to care for the individuals sprayed. Product may be best used by arrest teams to target persons singled out for arrest. Chemical munitions identification chart Name of Munition Smoke Color Code Uses Yellow Used to obscure vision and determine wind direction CN Red Used to disperse crowds or on barricaded subjects CS Blue Riot agent OC Orange Best used by arrest teams; currently not applied on a broad basis in crowd control Other agents you should know about--these agents will not be used as riot agents; however, they may be encountered when other agencies respond to assist during periods of civil disorder. Basic Law Enforcement Training Hypermedia 45 Crowd Management CR Violet Irritant and sickening agent DM OD Green Sickening agent; also called [email protected] If you come across any of these agents, turn them in to be properly disposed of. 4. Criteria for selection of riot agents a. Safety Although chemical agents are non-lethal by design, the improper use of these agents can cause serious injury or death. Safety is an important consideration when an agent is deployed. Never fire or throw grenades directly into a crowd. Deploy them above or at the feet of the crowd for a blast dispersion, or near the crowd for a continuous discharge. Never use grenades or projectiles designed and intended for external riot control inside confined areas. Never use excessive quantities of chemical agents CN or CS. Always leave an avenue of escape for the crowd. b. Effectiveness - agents should: (1) Produce rapid physiological reaction (2) Produce chemical effects in low concentration (3) Permit rapid recovery without lasting effects when subjects are removed from the contaminated area c. Deliverability - agents must be deliverable in sufficient concentration to be effective. d. Non-persistency - agents must be temporary in duration and should not present major decontamination problems, such as the use of CS burning munitions in a house or closed area. Persistency is directly affected by the nature of the agent, the method of dissemination, weather, and the area contaminated. e. Stability - agents should be stable over a wide range of temperatures and must be compatible with selected delivery systems. Basic Law Enforcement Training Hypermedia 46 Crowd Management 5. f. Acceptability - must be tolerated by the general public. g. Chemical agents are intended to be used to supplement, not replace, sound tactics or disciplined riot control forces. Forms of chemical munitions and methods of dissemination a. b. c. Forms of chemical agents (1) Solids - granulated agents combined with pyrotechnic mixture (2) Micro pulverized - agent reduces to extremely fine powder or dust (3) Liquid - agent suspended in a liquid solvent Methods of dissemination (1) Expulsion - the use of explosive or other force to eject micro pulverized chemical agents (2) Pyrotechnic - the burning of granulated chemical agents and a pyrotechnic mix to vaporize the agent and release it as a submicron aerosol cloud (3) Fog - the use of hot gases to vaporize a liquid agent formulation which is subsequently released as a fog cloud (4) Liquid - the use of an expelling force to project a liquid chemical agent formulation to a desired target Delivery systems There are four systems for the delivery of chemical munitions. Tactics dictate which system is most appropriate for a given situation. Choosing the wrong delivery system may make the use of chemical agents a burden rather than an asset. (1) Aerosol irritant projectors are one of the most widely used means of deploying chemical agents. (a) Basic Law Enforcement Training Hypermedia Mace projector - shoots a small stream 6-10 feet 40 one-second burst 47 Crowd Management (b) Fogger hand-held-wide fog stream 10-12 feet 25 one-second burst NOTE: Click on right arrow to reveal AAerosol [email protected] (2) Hand delivery system: The throwing of grenades by hand. Grenades should be thrown underhanded. NOTE: Click on right arrow 5 times to reveal AGrenades (A, B, C, D, E)[email protected] Instructors should also use training aids to supplement hypermedia slides. (3) Foggers: A dissemination device which operates by rapidly vaporizing liquid riot agents. A typical fogger will produce 100,000 cubic feet of agent cloud in 26 seconds. NOTE: Click on right arrow to reveal AFog [email protected] (4) Launching systems (a) 37mm system - a low pressure launching system used to deliver specialized long or short range munitions (b) Shotgun system - uses a special adapter and blank shell to lob the munition toward the target area NOTE: Display 37mm gas gun, shotgun launcher and blank shell. 6. Grenade munitions - hand-held or launched Grenades have a standard military mechanical fuse system, the M201A1. The M201A1 fuse has a standard delay of 1.5 seconds (0.7 to 2.0) margin of error. When deploying a grenade the following procedures will be followed: a. Right handed (1) Basic Law Enforcement Training Hypermedia Hold grenade in the right hand with the safety lever in the web of the hand. The safety pin should be straightened but not removed. This is necessary to allow for the safe removal of the safety pin before deploying the munition. 48 Crowd Management b. (2) Remove the safety pin, by pulling it toward your mid section and not away from the body. This procedure reduces the chances that you will accidentally drop the munition. (3) Once you have removed the pin, place the pin in your pocket, in case you need to re-secure the munition, should it not be deployed. Left handed Follow the same procedure as above, except that the grenade is held inverted in the left hand, so the lever is still securely held in the web of the hand. Always throw grenades underhanded to reduce the chances of injury. c. Blast dispersion (expulsion grenade) (1) (2) Basic Law Enforcement Training Hypermedia Explosive type (a) These grenades are filled with micro pulverized agent (b) The body is weakened; an explosive force ruptures the grenade ejecting the agent Non-explosive type (a) Federal Labs piston driven system to eject agent. This system also has a time delay fuse system. (b) Two-second delay for target deployment of 60 to 70 yards; a five-second delay for targets 120 yards away. The five-second delay is important when the grenade is to be launched. The twosecond delay will be used when the grenade is hand thrown. (c) Because the Federal Lab system does not burn, the grenade can be hand-held and used as a hand-held blast expulsion system. (d) Hand-held method of deployment 49 Crowd Management 1) Check fuse selector position to ensure it is set for a two-second delay. Note: Do not position pointer system between the 2 and 5 position. The pointer must be on one or the other. Grenade will not function if pointer is in off position. 2) Grasp grenade body with either hand, maintain pressure on the safety lever with the thumb; point base (rifling band) toward target. 3) Grasp pull ring with free hand, remove from grenade; place ring in pocket in case it is needed to re-secure the safety lever; grenade is now armed. 4) Point discharge end of grenade toward the target area, arm extended and grenade pointed slightly upward. Fire agent over the crowd so the agent will rain down giving maximum effect. Do not fire directly into rioters= faces. Agent can also be directed towards the rioters= feet. 5) To discharge, retain firm grip on grenade body, remove thumb from safety lever, allow lever to release. Grenade will discharge 2 seconds after safety lever is released. Agent will cover area of 15 to 20 feet in distance and 5 to 8 feet in width at its peak. 6) Re-securing the grenade: if it is decided that the grenade will not be deployed, you need to re-secure the safety lever. Maintain thumb pressure on safety lever and re-insert the safety pin. Note: Always keep the discharge end of the grenade pointed away from yourself. (e) Basic Law Enforcement Training Hypermedia Federal Lab system uses a CO2 cartridge expulsion system; can be used indoors or outdoors; designed for use where non-burning munitions are needed. 50 Crowd Management d. 7. Pyrotechnic dissemination (1) The release of agent through a burning process (2) Agent is mixed with smoke, which serves as an identifier showing accuracy, area of coverage and direction of movement (3) Method affected by quantity of agent in mixture (typical mixture 40% agent to 60% fuel/smoke) (4) Nature of prevailing wind and weather conditions, as well as the design of the munition can affect its effectiveness Tactical use of chemical agents When deploying chemical munitions officers should consider these three major factors. a. Meteorological conditions (1) (2) (3) b. Wind - used to spread agent (a) Head wind (b) Following wind (c) Flanking wind (d) Mechanical turbulence (e) Thermal turbulence Temperature (a) Heat will cause riot agents to dissipate quicker (b) Cooler temperatures will make the agent more persistent Rain will reduce the effectiveness of munitions Characteristics of the chemical munition (1) Basic Law Enforcement Training Hypermedia Liquid and gas dissipate quicker than powder forms 51 Crowd Management (2) c. Gas forms of munitions expand about 20% in 100 feet (approximately 20-foot spread in 100 feet) Target nature Chemical munitions must be deployed in sufficient concentrations to produce the desired effect. More munitions will be needed for crowd control than will be required for a barricaded subject. Assuming there is a normal wind of 5 to 10 mph, the output of burning munitions will expand about 20% of the down wind direction. Therefore, officers deploying chemical munitions should determine a line of release to gain the maximum effect of the agent on the crowd. NOTE: Click on right arrow twice to reveal AIdeal Release Patterns,@ Head Wind,@ and AFollowing [email protected] (1) Large groups Officers must use sufficient agent to effectively cover the entire crowd. Line of release and conversion line should be far enough back from the crowd to reduce the threat of Athrow [email protected] and maximize the coverage of the crowd with chemical agent. Important: an escape route for rioters must be determined before chemical agents are deployed. (2) Small groups Recent events continue to show the need to consider the use of chemical agents to disperse small groups (usually 25 to 50 persons). However, the use of chemical munitions should only be used when the crowd is disorderly to the extent of throwing objects, physically attacking officers, or there is imminent threat of either. When deploying chemical munitions on small groups, officers should use low volume munitions, so as not to affect uninvolved bystanders of the neighborhood. No legitimate police objective can be achieved by the indiscriminate spraying of chemical agents onto a crowd. Also, care must be taken to avoid discharging agent so that it only affects the front half of a crowd. This will place incapacitated individuals between the crowd and the front ranks of the police lines. Basic Law Enforcement Training Hypermedia 52 Crowd Management 8. First aid for exposure to chemical agents a. b. c. d. General - complete incapacitation (1) Remove affected person from the contaminated area to an open, upwind position (2) Remain calm (3) Major discomfort should disappear within 10 - 20 minutes Eyes - burning sensation, heavy flow of tears, involuntary closing of eyes (1) Keep eyes open, facing wind (2) Do not rub eyes (3) Tearing helps clear the eyes (4) If particles of agent are lodged in the eyes, wash out with large amounts of water Skin - stinging or burning sensation on moist skin areas; blisters from very heavy concentrations can occur (1) Sit and remain quiet to reduce sweating (2) Expose the affected areas to the air (3) Gross contamination can be relieved by flushing with clear water for at least 10 minutes (4) For CS, a solution of 5 to 10% sodium carbonate--sodium carbonate is superior to water and needs to be used only in small amounts. A baking soda solution (sodium bicarbonate) will also work, but more slowly. Nose - irritation, burning sensation, nasal discharge (1) Breathe normally (2) Blow nose to remove discharge (3) Nose drops should help if discomfort is severe Basic Law Enforcement Training Hypermedia 53 Crowd Management e. Chest - irritation, burning sensation, coughing, feeling of suffocation, tightness in chest, often accompanied by a feeling of panic (1) Victim should relax and keep calm (2) Talking reassuringly to the victim will help to relieve his/her discomfort and prevent panic Note: For severe or prolonged effects, complications, and contamination of wounds, seek medical attention as soon as possible. 15 9. Legal concerns about chemical munitions Chemical munitions have been generally accepted by the courts and public as an acceptable use of force to disperse riotous crowds and avert what the police could reasonably regard as threatened violence. 16 From 1934 to the present, only fifteen cases regarding the use of chemical agents have reached the appellate courts in the U.S. No case has, to date, been deliberated by a federal court. Therefore, it can be reasonably assumed that the use of chemical munitions can be legally justified. The only major issues considered by the courts have been the training of officers and the method of deployment (e.g., firing the agent straight into the faces of subjects).17 III. Conclusion A. Summary NOTE: Click on red square then [email protected] throughout to reveal training objectives. During this block of instruction we have identified the different classes of crowds and learned to differentiate between a casual crowd and a mob. We also identified the specific duties of a law enforcement officer when assigned to a potentially violent demonstration or at a nonviolent protest. We practiced crowd control formations utilizing riot batons, and we experienced the effects of chemical munitions as a crowd dispersal agent. B. Questions from Class C. Closing Statement NOTE: Click on left arrow to return to opening slide. Basic Law Enforcement Training Hypermedia 54 Crowd Management Crowd management is an experience that you may not encounter very often in your day-to-day responsibilities. However, if a crowd is not managed properly, the situation can escalate to violence very quickly. We must protect the public's right to assemble and demonstrate, and we must protect individuals and property owners in the vicinity of the demonstration. It is the goal of this lesson plan to provide information to do both of these tasks equally well. Basic Law Enforcement Training Hypermedia 55 Crowd Management NOTES 1. International Association of Chiefs of Police, Riot Control Tactics for New Urban Violence (Arlington, VA: I.A.C.P.), p. 16. 2. Ibid. 3. Ibid., p. 17. 4. Ibid., p. 20. 5. Ibid., p. 24. 6. Ibid., p. 32. 7. Ibid., p. 67. 8. ACivil Disorder,@ Basic Law Enforcement Training (Salemburg, NC: N. C. Justice Academy, 1994). 9. I.A.C.P., Riot Control Tactics, p. 7. 10. Ibid., p. 60-61. 11. Ibid., p. 4. 12. Rex Applegate, Riot Control Materials and Techniques (Harrisburg, PA: Stackpole Corp., 1969), p. 115. 13. L.A. County Sheriff=s Department, Civil Disorder - Mobile Tactics (1994). 14. Ibid., p. 7. 15. 1988), p. 10. Chemical Munitions Training Course Summary (Hart Valley, MD: A.A.T. Corp., 16. Martinez vs. Kilday 117 S.W. 2nd Texas Court of Civil Appeals, 1988. 17. Chemical Munitions Training Summary, p. 12. Basic Law Enforcement Training Hypermedia 56
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