NCJ Number
198052
Journal
Tactical Response Volume: 1 Issue: 1 Dated: 2002 Pages: 60-62
Date Published
2002
Length
3 pages
Annotation
This article outlines basic training and preparation that should be undertaken prior to the servicing of search or arrest warrants.
Abstract
The author explains that due to personnel and budgetary constraints, regular law enforcement officers, such as patrol officers and investigators, are often assigned the duty of servicing search or arrest warrants. Ideally, only SWAT members should service such warrants because of the dangers involved with this police duty. However, a recent California survey revealed that more than 70 percent of all warrants were serviced by patrol officers and investigators. As such, the purpose of this article is to outline basic strategic preparations and training that are essential to the safe servicing of warrants. The author explains that an operations plan should be written up to serve as a guideline for the mission. Details such as the location of the nearest hospital should be included. Photographs, preferably aerial shots, should be used to survey the grounds for points of entry and possible escape routes. The author explains that no amount of training and preparation is too much when it comes to the unpredictable job of servicing warrants. The inherent danger present in this job, coupled with the relative inexperience of patrol officers and investigators in handling high-risk situations, creates a precarious situation that necessitates a great deal of expertise and preparation.