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Last updated on Wednesday, December 28, 2016
(BLOOMINGTON) - Bloomington officers are now equipped with less lethal impact launchers.
"In our quest to ensure that the officers of the Bloomington Police Department are properly equipped to deal with threats to public safety, the department has initiated the training and deployment of less lethal launcher," Capt. Steven Kellams wrote in a press release.
The launchers are shotguns which have been modified with an orange stock and fore end and are clearly labeled with "LESS LETHAL." These launchers fire bean bag rounds and are used to safely end confrontations with violent individuals who seek to harm officers, innocent bystanders, or themselves.
"The overall goal of using the new launchers is to reduce the number of injuries to both officers and those being taken into custody while still effecting arrests in a safe and timely manner," Capt. Kellams added.
The Final Report of the President's Task Force on 21st Century Policing strongly encourages law enforcement agencies to provide training on de-escalation techniques and encourages the use of less lethal devices.
"The Bloomington Police Department remains committed to providing a safe environment for all citizens while continuing to implement recommendations outlined in the Final Report so as to strengthen trust and collaboration with the community in which we serve," Capt. Kellams added.
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