Cambridge Police Train How to Deploy Multiple Less Lethal Launchers to a Scene

Cambridge Police officers have been undergoing new training to learn how to deploy multiple less lethal launchers to a scene. Currently, only one device would be used on scene at a time. These bright orange launchers propel a blue sponge-tipped round designed to help temporarily incapacitate or disarm an individual - to bring a dangerous incident under control, or to protect the lives or safety of others or themselves.

With access to multiple less lethal launchers, CPD can attempt a layered response to harmful threat encounters. A layered response recognizes that a variety of options must be available to resolve harmful threat encounters, and if one fails, another should be immediately available. CPD’s goal is to use all means possible to avoid fatal uses of force.

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In some situations, less-lethal tools are critical as they can provide an alternative force option that can be effective. Whenever practicable, Cambridge Police officers are trained to use verbal and non-verbal engagement techniques and de-escalation actions to stabilize an incident so that more time, options, and resources can be made available. However, when de-escalation tactics have been attempted and are not feasible based on the totality of the circumstances, officers are authorized to use reasonable force to gain, maintain, or reestablish control to protect the lives and safety of others and/or themselves. The primary goal is to gain a person's voluntary compliance and to reduce or eliminate the need to use force.