December 2009 Issue

It's pretty hard to find the right gift for anyone this time of year. Buying gifts for cops is especially difficult. That's why the editors at POLICE have assembled this quick look at a dozen great gifts that any cop would love.

Today, law enforcement lightbars are becoming even more high-tech with the adoption of light emitting diodes (LEDs) and computer controls. Many lightbars also now feature modular design that allows an agency to replace and repair modules rather than the entire system.

So what did I find from the major vendors for base layers? There are base layers from cotton, various polyester/Lycra blends, wool blends, and layers for cold or hot weather. The choices seem to be endless.

Modern wireless networks and new battery technologies make it possible to locate surveillance cameras and listening devices virtually anywhere and without breaking the bank to do it.

Here's a quick look at some of the latest and greatest products that caught the eyes of our staff as they walked the aisles of the show.

Like civilians trapped in a store, bank, or restaurant when a gunman barges in and starts shooting, the Fort Hood soldiers were left with their bare hands as their only weapons.

I especially love the folks who are not only stupid but self-righteously stupid, which ought to have its own special term like "extremepidity."

Scott Smith reviews gear from CamelBak, Insight Tech-Gear, Woolrich, and the Mako Group.

FN's SCAR is one of the first true 21st century rifles. It features amazing ergonomics and offers exceptional accuracy.

As rounds smacked into the walls and furniture about Garcia and Roell, Garcia fired two quick bursts toward the top of the stairs.

When you're involved in a life-and-death battle where someone is grabbing your gun, anything in your hand can be used as an equalizer to help you gain control of your gun and gain control of the suspect by striking him in the face or head.

In addition to good citizens reporting suspicious behavior, police may receive tips from fellow officers, criminal informants, or anonymous sources. The more reliable the source of information, the less independent police investigation is necessary to verify the veracity of the tip.

Even though it was toward the back of the exhibit hall, it was hard to miss Oshkosh Defense's new Tactical Protector Vehicle (TPV) at this year's International Association of Chiefs of Police show. It's an imposing vehicle.

Give Miranda warnings just before commencement of apparent custodial police interrogation-not sooner. Leave Hollywood tactics to the actors.