Is it permissible under SOP to fire a beanbag shotgun at a person within 10 feet?

Is it permissible under SOP to fire a beanbag shotgun at a person within 10 feet?

• A. Yes, if necessary
• B. No, it is prohibited
• C. Only with a supervisor’s approval
• D. Depends on the training of the officer

Answer: (B)

Firing a beanbag shotgun at a person within 10 feet is prohibited according to Standard Operating Procedures (SOP). The rationale behind this restriction is based on the potential for serious injury; beanbag rounds are considered less-lethal but can still cause significant harm, especially at close range where the projectile can hit with greater force and accuracy. This close distance increases the risk of penetrating injuries or causing significant trauma, which contradicts the intent of using less-lethal options. Maintaining a safe distance ensures that the use of this type of force is appropriate and minimizes the risk of harm to individuals, aligning with the principles of de-escalation and proportionality in force application.

Firing a beanbag shotgun at a person within 10 feet is prohibited according to Standard Operating Procedures (SOP). The rationale behind this restriction is based on the potential for serious injury; beanbag rounds are considered less-lethal but can still cause significant harm, especially at close range where the projectile can hit with greater force and accuracy. This close distance increases the risk of penetrating injuries or causing significant trauma, which contradicts the intent of using less-lethal options. Maintaining a safe distance ensures that the use of this type of force is appropriate and minimizes the risk of harm to individuals, aligning with the principles of de-escalation and proportionality in force application.