23-156 "Preemptive Deployment of Tire Deflation Devices"

The purpose of this Department Notice is to provide guidance to officers when circumstances arise which necessitate the preemptive deployment of tire deflation devices (TDD).

TDD uses a variety of mechanical methods to defeat the integrity of vehicle tires to release the air pressure in a predictable, controlled manner.

TDD are de-escalation tools and are intended as a defensive vehicle intervention tactic, deployed with the intent to afford time and distance by safely slowing a vehicle, thus reducing risk to the public, vehicle occupants, and officers.

On September 20, 2023, the Police Commission adopted Resolution 23-89. This resolution states, in part, that "The preemptive use of TDDs, including spike strips, is an incredibly effective law enforcement tool." The resolution authorized the Department to resume preemptive deployment of TDDs, consistent with prior practice.

In accordance with this resolution, the preemptive deployment of TDD is now authorized. Tire deflation devices may be used proactively to prevent flight or assault, or reactively to intervene with a fleeing, reckless, or assaultive vehicle.

Only officers who have completed Department training in preemptive TDD deployment are authorized to employ this tactic. This training will be coordinated and presented by the Academy.

The following units are already proficient in preemptive TDD deployment and are authorized to immediately implement this tactic:

1. FOB District Station plainclothes teams
2. CVRT
3. CGIC
4. SDRU

TDD deployment should be considered in any of the following circumstances:

1. During a vehicle pursuit. TDD deployment procedures during a vehicle pursuit are governed by DGO 5.05.
2. When a vehicle is being operated in a manner likely to cause death or serious bodily injury to the public, vehicle occupants, or officers.
3. When there is probable cause to arrest or reasonable suspicion to detain an occupant of the vehicle and there is an articulable and reasonable belief that the operator of the vehicle has previously fled or is likely to flee if a vehicle stop is attempted.
4. When there is probable cause to arrest or reasonable suspicion to detain an occupant of the vehicle and there is an articulable and reasonable belief that the occupant needs to be immediately apprehended because of the risk posed to public safety due to the seriousness of the crime.
5. To prevent the movement of a stationary vehicle when there is a reasonable belief that the vehicle will be operated or occupied by an individual in circumstances described in Section iii or iv, above.
6. During special events (e.g., parades, large gatherings, races) to prevent any vehicle from causing serious bodily injury or death.

LIMITED USES -TDD shall not be used in the following circumstances (unless the use of deadly force is appropriate):

1. Two or three wheeled vehicles such as motorcycles, mopeds, or motorized three wheelers.
2. Any vehicle transporting hazardous material as defined in section 2402.7 of the California Vehicle Code.
3. Any passenger or school bus currently transporting passengers.
4. Any articulated vehicle such as a vehicle towing a trailer or a semi-tractor/trailer combination.

TRAINING AND EQUIPMENT

1. Officers may only deploy Department issued TDD.
2. Officers may only deploy a TDD after they have completed Department approved training on that specific type of TDD.

PROPERTY DAMAGE - TDD contact with and/or damage to an unintended vehicle does not constitute a use of force and shall be documented according to Department procedures for damage to private property.

/s/
WILLIAM SCOTT 
Chief of Police

Per DN 23-152, all sworn & non-sworn members shall electronically acknowledge this Department document in PowerDMS within (30) thirty calendar days of issuance. Members whose duties are relevant to this document shall be held responsible for compliance. Any questions regarding this policy should be sent to [email protected] who will provide additional information.