August 2009 Issue

The use of headsets is prevalent in all law enforcement operations. And whether the needs are tactical or administrative, cops all want the same things from a  headset: clear communications, comfort, and durability.

When you're the first on the scene, you often have to take on roles that might not otherwise fall under your standard job description, such as paramedic. If you have the right tools on hand, you can help not only those you protect and serve, but also yourself and other officers who need medical attention.

Coming from the old school of cops with revolvers, I was never a big fan of lights attached to a gun. But today's weapon-mounted lights and laser sights dance circles around traditional flashlights when it comes to practical illumination while holding a firearm.

It took some searching and reading, but I managed to come up with cutlery and tools for duty that won't break the bank and won't break when cutting open a heavy-duty box.

For some of the kids in the D.A.R.E. program, the D.A.R.E. officer is the only adult that they can really talk to.

Dave Smith recounts his LAPD SWAT training, when he was "in the midst of a training scenario requiring a Spiderman-like trip from the top of a very tall building to a window on the sixth floor ... With only the hookers and cabbies of downtown Los Angeles to bear witness, I stepped backward into space 14 stories above the street."

Every once in a while I run across a weapon that just seems perfect for its intended purpose. The new Rock River Arms Elite Comp seems as though it was designed from the ground up as a patrol carbine, with each of its features created to meet the needs of that mission.

Overall I found the TLR-3 to be a fine light. With its interchangeable locking plates it is one of the most versatile weapon-mounted lights on the market.

The three-shot TASER pistol marketed as the X3 has been one of the company's most secret projects. It's also been a product that cops have been requesting for years.

Child abuse is a wide reaching problem entailing physical and emotional abuse. This article will address one segment of child abuse, specifically burn injuries sustained by children.

There are principles from combat sports that can be implemented in on-duty combat situations. Among the most fundamental fighting basics to carry with you from the arena to the job are stance, range, and proper control of your opponent.

As rounds flew back and forth before him like some ballistic tennis match, Soden got back to his feet and in the fight. Lining up his sights on the suspect nearest him, he fired.

It will now be possible for law enforcement officers to attempt to obtain a waiver and an admissible statement from a defendant without running afoul of the Sixth Amendment.