Did you ever wonder what equipment police officers carry on their utility belts?

 

By David McClelland

 

I had the opportunity to ask that question of two Auburn Hills policemen at a local eatery recently and here is what they told me that they carry:

-       1 police pistol

-       2 spare ammunition magazines – each loaded with 20 bullets (a)

-       2 sets of handcuffs

-       1 police Taser (b)

-       1 can of Pepper Spray (c)

-       1 police flashlight

-       1 police radio

-       1 pouch containing rubber gloves (d)

-       1 audio microphone directed to the recording equipment in the police car 

The officers said that all of these items weigh a total of about 30 pounds.

(They also carry a utility knife in their pants pockets)

I checked with the Bloomfield Township Police Department and learned that their officers carry basically the same equipment, but they also carry a collapsible baton,which takes the place of the night stick they used to carry.They carry just one set of handcuffs and their flashlight is optional, but both the extra handcuffs and the flashlight are available in their automobile.

(a) With the extra magazines, each officer begins his shift with 30 rounds of ammunition.

(b) The police Taser, or stun gun, is an electro shock weapon. It is intended to temporarily disable, but not permanently injure, the target person. The primary purpose of a Taser is to create neuromuscular incapacitation which means that it interrupts the ability of the brain to control the muscles of the body. Once the electricity stops flowing, the person begins to regain control of his body. A person who has been shot with a Taser will go to great lengths to prevent being shot a second time.  A Taser used to excess can kill.

(c)  Pepper spray, when sprayed in the face, causes temporary blindness, pain, breathing problems and panic. When used to excess, it can kill. Pepper spray is considered a personal defensive weapon and is legal in all 50 states. It isn't sold to minors or to persons who have been convicted of a felony.

(d)  These gloves are worn to prevent the spread of disease.