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City Council Meeting Minutes July 7, 2020 <br />respiratory restraints and knees kept on necks is not allowed. SMPD officers <br />are not allowed to "hog tie" arrested persons. The department invested several <br />thousand dollars into purchasing Wrap restraints. These full body restraints <br />are designed and used to humanely restrain individuals who are being violent <br />and aggressive during the arrest process. They allow for a violently resisting <br />individual to be transported while seated in an upright position and with the <br />seatbelt applied. <br />De escalation Training Initiative: <br />Chief Klett stated that the state mandates de escalation training in various <br />cycles. Members of the San Marcos Police Department are consistently trained <br />in de escalation principles throughout their career. Additionally, de escalation <br />training is part of the state mandated training for all new police officers. <br />Chief Klett explained the training focuses on active listening first, and then <br />other de escalation principles so that lawful force is not needed. If force is <br />used, de escalation and the provision of care and recovery support for the <br />person is required as soon as practicable. These trainings are supplied both in <br />house and in online training. <br />Chief Klett stated that the legitimacy of the work of police is very important, it <br />is a stewardship of authority given by those we serve. It is earned through the <br />way staff interacts with the public and by treating people with dignity and <br />respect. <br />Require Warning Before Shooting Initiative: <br />SMPD Policy Reference under 6.1 Response to Resistance and Aggression IV. <br />Procedures B. Use of Deadly Force: Where practicable, prior to discharge of <br />the firearm, officers shall identify themselves as law enforcement officers and <br />state their intent to shoot. <br />Chief Klett stated SMPD officers are prohibited from using excessive force at <br />all times. Requiring a verbal warning in all instances before force is applied is <br />not a reasonable expectation. Deadly force encounters often involve <br />split-second decisions. The human brain cannot speak and act at the same <br />time. There have been situations involving very rapidly escalating violence on <br />the part of offenders who choose to attack officers. The cases of Officers Ken <br />Copeland and Justin Putnam are both specific, local, examples. <br />SMPD policy does require officers to give clear verbal direction and <br />explanation to detainees and arrestees in all instances if feasible. <br />City of San Marcos Page 5 <br />