HomeMy WebLinkAbout02-08-2000 ICPD Reports/MemosIOWA CITY POLICE DEPARTMENT
TRAINING BULLETIN 00-01
DATE: Jan. 3`d, 2000
TO: Commanders (Pass on to all officers)
FROM: k.hurd
SUBJECT: Watch Training
This week's watch training, 00-18 is a continuation of last week's felony/prone
training. This week the issues are quadrant searches and getting a cuffed subject
from the ground to his/her feet. As with last weeks training, this is intended to be
a hands on session, choosing an officer to verbalize and demonstrate the
procedure. As with last week, this was developed and written by Officer Mebus,
DT instructor.
k.hurd
Cc: Chief Winkelhake
Capt. Hamey
Capt. Widmer
Watch Training 00-18
Quadrant Search/Prone to Standing
Scenario - You have just directed a subject involved in an armed robbery to the felony
prone position. He is handcuffed without incident. After getting him cuffed the subject
needs to be searched and helped to his feet. (Watch Supervisor select an officer (not a
DT instructor) to demonstrate and verbalize a quadrant search and technique for assisting
the suspect to his feet.) Suspect officer is to comply with instructions.
Critical Issues -
1. Did your "visual" search prior to going prone, reveal weapons?
a. Yes - start search in that quad
b. No - start search at head and go to feet.
2. Is prisoner a known/suspected drug user?
a. Yes - protective hand wear mandatory (preferably puncture resistant)
b. No - Hand wear still recommended
3. Pat Down v Squeeze
a. Pat down OK for larger weapons - may not discover smaller blades, razors etc.
b. Squeeze best for smaller items
Quadrant Search
1. Start head to toe
2. Divide suspect body into four quadrants
3. Do one quadrant at a time - front and back or back then front
I.e. face down suspect - search upper left back, roll suspect 1/4 turn, search front,
search front of lower left, roll suspect to face down, search lower left back repeat
right side.
4. Quad search can be very thorough if needed. Keeps suspect off balance and easier to
control while cuffed, on ground. Include inside shoes/socks if needed.
Prone to Standing
1. Best done with 2 officers, 1 OK but be very aware of balance
2. Roll cuffed suspect to one side R or L
3. As roll starts, lift up on suspect shoulders and continue having suspect twist to sitting
position.
4. From sitting position have suspect pull one foot towards him/her with toe pointed.
5. As suspect does this push forward on suspects shoulders to "roll" suspect up on
his/her knee
6. Once knee position is obtained, assist suspect to standing position with simple left
under arms.
7. Officer must be aware of good lifting techniques, especially if doing this alone.
8. Verbalize entire process to suspect before starting and make sure he/she understands.
Continue step by step verbalization as you start the process.
Discussion -
In this case can the search be more than a pat down.
Is there a need to search the subject again after getting him to his feet?
Would contraband not related to the robbery be admissible?
What steps should be taken if the subject refuses to get to his feet? (Non -combative)
IOWA CITY POLICE DEPARTMENT
TRAINING BULLETIN 00-05
DATE: Jan. 10th, 2000
TO: Commanders (Pass on to all officers)
FROM: k.hurd
SUBJECT: Watch Training
This weeks watch training, 00-29 pertains to Search and Seizure. It is being issued with General
Order 00-01 Search and Seizure. Please review the training and General Order with your watch.
Have the officers' SIGN on the provided sheets when the order has been reviewed and the
training has been completed. Upon completion return the signature sheets to me for
documentation.
Cc: Chief Winkelhake
Capt. Harney
Capt. Widmer
Watch Training 00-29
SEARCHES
Scenario - You are investigating a theft. During the course of the investigation you go the
residence of a suspect. While walking up the sidewalk to the house, you observe some potted
marijuana plants sitting in a window. Upon knocking, the door is answered by a subject who you
identify as a roommate of the suspect. The roommate invites you in to the living room. You
inquire as to the room containing the marijuana plant. The roommate states it belongs to your
suspect. You ask the roommate for permission to search. During the search, your suspect opens
the door of the room containing the marijuana and starts to exit. Upon seeing you she ducks
back in to the room and slams the door.
Critical Issues - Does the roommate have authority to authorize a search. If so, to what extent
can the roommate authorize a search? Do you need permission to search the room containing
the marijuana?
Discussion - The roommate may authorize a search of common areas of the apartment. The
roommate may also authorize the search of his/her 'personal" living space. The roommate does
not have the authority to authorize the search of the 'personal" living area of another resident of
the house/apartment. If they shared a bedroom, the roommate could authorize the search of a
bedroom but not a dresser or closet exclusively used by the other roommate.
In the above scenario you would probably not be permissible to enter the room containing the
marijuana based on a Plain View exception. The Plain View doctrine gives rise to probable cause
which could culminate in the issuance of a warrant. You as the officer had the opportunity to
obtain a search warrant prior to entering the apartment. You could legitimately proceed with your
theft investigation. There was no exigency prior to your entering the apt.
Once the person retreated back in to the room you the officer would need to take some type of
action. Of paramount consideration is your safety. Do you have a legitimate fear that the subject
may be accessing a weapon? Would you be able to articulate this concern? If you legitimately
fear for your welfare may be justified in entering the room for your protection.
If you decide to follow the suspect in to the room, upon arresting the suspect for PCS you could
then search her incident to arrest and also search the area within her immediate control at the
time of the arrest. This search may be for weapons or "fruits of the crime". This search must be
contemporaneous in time and place, i.e. you cannot take the person to jail and then return and
search the bedroom.
With the above in mind, once you decided to proceed on the theft investigation with the
knowledge that there is contraband inside the residence, you may have jeopardized the seizure
and prosecution of any PCS charges. Le. did you create your own exigent circumstances?
Consistent with current departmental and JCAtty standards, the preferred method would be to
obtain a search warrant for the room prior to proceeding with your related investigation.
Search and Seizure
Date of Issue General Order Number
Effective Date 7Section Code
Reevaluation Date Amends/Cancels
C.A.L. E.A. Reference
1.2.4
INDEX AS:
Search
Seizure
Warrants
Arrests
Stop and Frisk
I. PURPOSE
The purpose of this order is to provide members of the Iowa City Police Department
with guidelines and background pertaining to search and seizure.
II. POLICY
It is the policy of this department to conduct searches that are both legal and thorough.
Such searches are to be conducted in strict observance of the Constitutional Rights of
the persons being searched and with due regard for the safety of the officers involved.
All seizures shall comply with all relevant state and federal statues governing the
seizure of persons or property.
III. DEFINITIONS
A. Constitution of the United States of America:
Amendment 4
The right of the people to be secure in their persons, houses, papers, and effects,
against unreasonable searches and seizures, shall not be violated, and no Warrants
shall issue, but upon probable cause, supported by Oath or affirmation, and
particularly describing the place to be searched, and the person or things to be
seized.
B. Constitution of the State of Iowa:
Article I. Bill of Rights
Section 8. The right of the people to be secure in their persons, houses, papers and
effects, against unreasonable searches and seizures shall not be violated; and no
warrant shall issue, but on probable cause, supported by oath or affirmation, and
particularly describing the place to be searched, and the persons and things to be
seized.
IV. PROCEDURES
Search and Seizure Without a Warrant
The Iowa City Police Department recognizes that "Citizens have the right to be free of
unreasonable search and seizure" as afforded by the Constitution of the United States.
This Department will strive to ensure that all searches and seizures meet current legal
requirements. In recognition of this, the following guidelines are to be considered when
making a determination to search without a warrant.
A. Consent to Search:
1. Persons or property may be searched upon the consent of the person, owner or
person in control of the property or item to be searched. The person giving
consent must do so voluntarily. The officer is obligated to abide by any
constraints placed on the search by the person.
B. Exigent Circumstances:
1. An officer may search without a warrant when the public safety is endangered
and obtaining consent or a warrant is impractical.
C. Moveable vehicle which may contain evidence that may be removed or destroyed
without a timely search being made.
1. A vehicle may be searched if an officer reasonably believes that it may contain
evidence of a crime, which may be destroyed or moved, and it is impractical to
obtain a warrant.
D. Stop and Frisk:
1. An individual may be frisked for weapons if an officer has an articulable concern
for his/her safety.
E. Inventory Searches of Impounded Vehicles:
1. Inventory searches of impounded or seized vehicles may be conducted for the
purpose of documenting property contained in the vehicle. An inventory search
should not be used when the primary reason is to obtain evidence. (see impound
policy)
F. Search Incident to Arrest:
1. When an arrest is made, the officer will conduct a search of the arrested person
and the area in the immediate control of the arrested person for the purpose of
ensuring the officers' safety, preventing the person from escaping, discovering
the fruits of the crime, or discovering instruments or articles which may have
been used in the commission of a crime or constitute evidence of an offense.
This search must be contemporaneous in place and time.
G. Plain View:
1. Officers may visually search items or property that are in plain view, provided
that the officer has the right to be in the position from which the view was made.
H. Crime Scene Search:
1. Depending on the location of a crime scene, consent or a warrant may be
required prior to a search. (i.e. public v. private property)
I. Officers may search persons on premises during the execution of a search warrant
in order to protect their safety, prevent disposal or concealment of property subject
to the warrant or to remove any items that could be used to effect an escape or
resist arrest.
J. Officers may conduct warrantless searches in other situations under applicable case
law. (See training documentation)
K. Search and Seizure Pursuant to Warrant
1. When an officer has probable cause to believe that a crime has been committed
on the premises to be searched, or that evidence of a crime could be located there,
officers shall obtain a search warrant prior to entry and search in accordance with
applicable state law and procedures. (See training documentation.)
If it is unclear if a situation falls into one of the above categories and an officer believes
that there is need to search a person, location or item; the officer should consult with an
on -duty watch supervisor. If a determination is not reached, the on -call County Attorney
shall be called for advice on how to proceed.
R. J. Winkelhake, Chief of Police
WARNING
This directive is for departmental use only and does not apply in any criminal or civil
proceeding. The department policy should not be construed as a creation of higher
legal standard of safety or care in an evidentiary sense with respect to third -party
(claims. Violations of this directive will only form the basis for departmental
administrative sanctions.
IOWA CITY POLICE DEPARTMENT
TRAINING BULLETIN 00-09
DATE: Jan. 31 st, 2000
TO: Commanders (Pass on to all officers)
FROM: k.hurd
SUBJECT: Watch Training
This weeks watch training deals with "suspensions". This is at the request of the
Johnson County Atty's. office and the Johnson County Jail which have to re -
contact a person when the incorrect charge has been filed. (see attached note)
Cc: Chief Winkelhake
Capt. Hamey
Capt. Widmer
Watch Training 00-32
Driving While???
Scenario - You stop a vehicle for going through a red light. Upon speaking with the
driver, she tells you that she is suspended but is unsure as to the details. Your 27 indicate
a suspension. You then run a manual check on the subject and the records show that the
person is suspended pursuant to 321.218 and also 321J.21.
Critical Issues - What charge(s) should be filed. If the person is under multiple
suspensions does it make any difference as to which of the suspensions the person is
charged with? Does the person need to be fingerprinted?
Discussion - The County Attorney's office has been receiving numerous DUS charges
under 321.218, or 321A.32; when the person is also under suspension or revocation for
321J.21 or 321.561.
NOTE: Officers should not be writing the charge under 321.210 or 321.210A. While
these may pertain to the reason the person is suspended, 321.218 is the "Operating
without valid drivers license or when disqualified" section.
Iowa Code 690.2 requires the fingerprinting of all persons taken into custody for the
commission of a serous misdemeanor or higher, WITH THE EXCEPTION of serious
misdemeanor charges filed under 321 and 321A. For example, an officer files a charge
for DUS under 321.218 (serious misdemeanor) and the subject has a second suspension
related to 321J21. 321J. IS NOT included in the printing exceptions of the code. If the
officer fails to file a charge under 321J., when the County Atty's office reviews the
charge they may notice the suspension under 321J. and will probably dismiss the serious
321.218 charge and re -file under 321J.. The offender would then need to be contacted
and arrangements made for her to come in and be fingerprinted. Similarly, if there was a
"suspension" under 321.561 which is an aggravated misdemeanor, and the operator
charged pursuant to 321.561, she would be required to be printed.
Bottom line... The County Attorney's office would like the highest level charge filed
relating to suspensions. Or if there are co -equal level charges and one of them is not
under 321 or 321A., that would be the preferred charge.
COPY FOR YOII#
INFORMATION
JOHNSON COUNTY ATTORNEY
ALL STAFF
REGARDING FINGERPRINTING OF DEFENDANTS
CHARGED UNDER CHAPTERS 321 AND 321A.
H.F. 403 of the 78th G.A. (1999) deleted the fingerprinting requirement for
serious misdemeanors under chapters 321 and 321A. The DCI will only accept
fingerprint cards for persons charged with aggravated misdemeanors or higher ender
those two chapters. Since chapter 321A has no offenses higher than a serious
misdemeanor, no fingerprinting is necessary when a person is charged under that
chapter (321A.32, unless with 321J.21). Under chapter 321: Falsifying a Drivers
License, 321.216A; Driving while Suspended, 321.218; and Leaving the Scene of an
Accident, 321.261(2); no longer require fingerprint cards. No one should be marking
Informations for defendants to come in for prints, if these are the only charges being
filed.
Also, the sheriffs department has complained that peace officers are charging
persons with violations of 321.218 (or incorrectly under 321.210 or .210A) or under
321A.32, when these persons should have been charged under 321J.21 or 321.561.
These defendants are released without being printed. Then, when we file the correct
charge of Driving While Revoked,under 321J.21, or Driving While Barred, under
321.561, the defendant has to return to be printed. Please try to bring this problem to
the attention of those officers who fail to file the correct charge.
Dave Tiffany
Watch Training 00-19
Felony Warrant Service
Scenario - At squad meeting you are advised that there is a felony warrant from an
outside agency, for a subject involved in an armed robbery. Information indicates the
subject had used a handgun in the robbery and further stated that the subject had made
statements that he would not be taken without a fight. The address provided on the
warrant is not valid but upon further investigation you are able to confirm the subject is
staying with a friend and a current address of the friend. At 03:17 you drive by the
address and observe lights on and can see someone inside but are unsure if it is the
subject that you are looking for.
Critical Issues -
What steps should be taken prior to serving the warrant?
Pursuant to G/O 99-11 Arrests, officers are to confirm warrants prior to their execution.
How many officers should be present when serving a warrant?
G/O 99-11 states that there should be at least 2 officers present when serving a warrant;
however, there is also a procedure in the SRT Policies and Procedure manual, (which is
contained in the Watch Commanders office,) for assessing the risk factors involved in
serving a warrant. With the risk factors present, officers need to consult with the Warrant
Service matrix prior to serving the warrant. In this scenario the supervisor would at a
minimum, need to consult with SRT prior to the service of the warrant.
Do officers need a search warrant in addition to the arrest warrant?
Iowa Code Section 804.15 Breaking and entering premises —demand to enter,
If a law enforcement officer has reasonable cause to believe that a person whom the
officer is authorized to arrest is present on any private premises, the officer may upon
identifying the officer as such, demand that the officer be admitted to such premises for
the purpose of making the arrest. If such demand is not promptly complied with, the
officer may thereupon enter such premises to make the arrest, using such force as is
reasonably necessary.
In this case officers need to ascertain if the person inside the apartment is the suspect.
Discussion -
If a decision to call in SRT is reached what should officers do prior to the arrival of SRT?
Officers need to maintain clandestine surveillance on the residence until the arrival of
SRT command. Any new information or changes should be immediately forwarded to
the incident commander.
What should officers do if the subject leaves the residence'?
In this case an on the spot decision would need to be made if the officers on the scene
should arrest the subject at this time or, allow the subject to leave with the intention that
the subject will be apprehended at a latter time, or if practical, continue to maintain some
type of covert observation.
What factors should the officers consider when deciding whether or not to arrest the
- person as they left the location?
Are there sufficient units available at the scene, can the approach be made safely, can
officers approach quickly enough that the subject will not be able to flee? Other?
sBIBISK ASSESSMEpLT_.MAIB1X
WARRANT SERVICE
Risk assessment is pasM on Ia01S and Cl,cum5lances staled n. Inc affidavit for file aneSl O,
search warrant and criminal ',,story of the suspect$
FACT -------
Search warrant ,s fir evidence of tuopeny conies Only
Search warrant ,s lot drugs
✓
SCORE
0
FPOINTS
I
2
Search warrant ,s 10, evidence of crime against person
0
Ane51 warrant ,s lot property crimes
Arrest wananl ds to, drug possessrONdrslnbu00n
I
2
Arrest wananl d5 for crime against person
0
Service of warrant requires minimal forced entry
2
Service of warrant requires use of breaching lools
10
Localron,s fondled. requiring specialty breaching
0
Subject Of warrant has property crime history Only
I
Subject of warrant has history of crime against persons
2
Subject of warrant has made statements regarding tesrst,nq
apprehensronrsearch
J
Subject of warrant has violent criminal history
8
Subject of warrant has history of violent crimes against police
to
Subject of warrant has used firearms during Commission of
comes
I
Firearms present at location for service
2
4
Firearms readily available to suspects al location for service
Subject of wananl known to carry Lrearms on person
Subject of wananl a always aimed
6
i
Wa i rani bang sought is -knock and announce
2
Warrant being sought includes -no knock" provision J
TOTAL POINTS
1
DECISION MATRIX
0.9 Points SeNice/execution may be handled by unit SuPCNSOr warrant service requires
nolddcabon of On Duty Supervisor
10 In Points SRT should be consulted about senocelexecul,O4 though SRT pdmc,pation not
required, warrant service requires approval 01 Watch Commander
f 5 25 Points Consultation with SR r required to, senncelo.mubon_ warrant service requir Cs
approval Of Watch Commander or Commander of Field Operations or designee
and notification of Inc Chief of Police
PWnis SRT required lot ;Crmcc1eiecution Incident Command achvanon recommended
warrant service retli✓ref approval of Division Comrnapde, dnO „OIa,CapOn of Cbiel
of Police
IOWA CITY POLICE DEPARTMENT
DATE:
TO:
FROM:
SUBJECT:
TRAINING BULLETIN 00-06
Jan. 17th, 2000
Commanders (Pass on to all officers)
k.hurd
Watch Training
This week's watch training 00-19 pertains to the risk assessment matrix. The
matrix is contained in the SRT policies and procedures manual which is available
to watch supervisors. If upon covering this material an officer wishes to study the
manual in detail, please make arrangements for them to do so. The point of
emphasis for this training is, if someone is about to serve a high -risk warrant,
they need to see if/where it may fall in the warrant matrix and if enough indicators
are present, there are notification requirements.
Cc: Chief Winkemake
Capt. Harney
Capt. Widmer
Watch Training 00-31
Scenario - NCIC Recertification
Critical Issues - What do members of the Iowa City Police Department need to
know to become or remain certified to access state and federal NCIC/DOT files?
We will be certifying on FEB. 23, 2000. Officers need to know the information
contained in the book to pass the test.
Discussion - The accompanying book has been provided by the Iowa Department of
Public Safety. It contains the information which officers will need to know to
maintain or to become certified for the use of departmental data terminals. On
02/23/00 a representative/trainer from the Iowa Department of Public Safety will be
conducting 2 classes pertaining to certification. Officers will need to pass a written
test which will be held after each of the classes, OR officers may attend a drop in
test starting at approx. 10:00 on the 23`d. If the officer does not successfully
complete the test during the drop in session, they may attend the afternoon class and
then retest.
Precise starting times and location will be provided as the date draws near.
IOWA CITY POLICE DEPARTMENT
TRAINING BULLETIN 00-07
DATE: Jan. 21 st, 2000
TO: Commanders (Pass on to all officers)
FROM: k.hurd
SUBJECT: Watch Training
This week's watch training relates to the upcoming certification/recertification relating to state and
federal automated information databases. Distribute the study guide to all members of your
watch and let me know who received the manuals.
This year a class will be held starting around 08:30 with testing to follow at approx. 09:30. There
will then be an open testing session for those who do not wish to attend the class. This will begin
after the testing of the first class. The test consists of 50 questions. There will then be an
afternoon class with testing to immediately follow the class. It is preferred that as many officers
as possible attend the drop -in testing session. There is no appointment necessary for the drop in
testing, the officer may show up anytime during the testing period. The test will deal with the
information contained in the book. There is a sample test in the book which officers may take
after studying the book. Let me know by 02/15/00 as to who will be attending when.
All members who have not previously been certified while employeed by Iowa City MUST
attend a class and take the test after the class period.
Cc: Chief Winkelhake
Capt. Hamey
Capt. Widmer
ICPD TRAINING
DATE: February 1, 2000
TO: Chief Winkelhake
From: K.Hurd
REF: December Training Report
ASLET
01/10-15
Richmond
Hurd
Training in various aspects of the training functions. Include sessions on
evaluation/identification of training needs, developing a training program, and other
related issues.
MATS 2000
Beginning 01/10/2000 continuing for 5 consecutive weeks
Required for all ICPD sworn personnel with partial attendance for non -sworn
This years MATS contains the following blocks:
Mon.
Hazardous Materials recert.
Bloodborne pathogens
CPR
Tue.
ASP and Use of Force training
Crowd control Techniques
Defensive Tactics/weapon retention
Wed.
Drug awareness
Driving course
Hostage/Barricade overview
Disability awareness
Thurs.
Crisis Center Services
Communications Skills
Rapid Deployment procedures
Sexual Offender Registry
01/26-27/2000
Campbell
Training in the use, application and limitations of the states Sexual Offender Registry
law.
FATS training
Month long
44 members trained with FATS
SRT Range
Not scheduled due to. MATS training
SRT Scenario Training
01/04/2000
16 SRT
Regularly scheduled physical testing for SRT members. Room entry drills. Maintenance
of equipment.
Squad Meeting Training
Weekly
ICPD
All members
WT #s 00-18,29,19,31,32
Copy: City Manager
Captain Widmer
PCRB
Low Back Pain
By Keith Roper
Adapted from July 98 Shotgun Sports magazine
BACK PAIN
Statistics suggest about 80% of all people will suffer a
significant episode of back pain at some point in their
lives, and in any given year as many as 50% of us will
experience some back pain. So it's really more a
question of "when" rather than "if"...or is it? Are there
things we do that can predispose us to back pain and
that we can change? Are there things we can do to
prevent back pain or reduce its severity once an
episode has started? Could taking several of these
steps improve the way we feel?
It is a basic fact that when the body is not in peak
condition, performance will suffer. When you are in
pain, your mind cannot be completely focused on the
cask at hand. When muscles are tight, you cannot
make smooth movements. Your nervous system can
only process so many signals at once and prioritizes
things, so a simple command may be overridden by a
twinge of pain just long enough to throw off your timing
and make you miss something. Most back pain is
benign, that is, not considered to be a serious health
threat. It is generally a result of poor posture, the
cumulative effect of bad habits or both.
There are many conditions that can lead to back pain,
but we will address the major players: posture,
sprains/strains, disc problems, muscle spasm and
arthritis. And we will see that the keys to fighting back
INSIDE THIS ISSUE
Low Back Pain
Footwear, The Missed Evidence
4 NCIC Recertification
nano 9
Footwear, The Missed
Evidence
Dwayne S. Hilderbrand,
Author of the book, Footwear, The
Missed Evidence
Introduction
"Wherever he steps, whatever he touches,
whatever he leaves, even unconsciously, will serve
as silent witness against him. Not only his
fingerprints or his footprints, but his hair, the fibers
from his clothing, the glass he breaks, the tool
mark he leaves, the paint he scratches, the blood
or semen he deposits or collects. All of these and
more bear mute witness against him. This is
evidence that does not forget. It is not confused
by the excitement of the moment. It is not absent
because human witnesses are, it is factual
evidence, physical evidence cannot be wrong, it
cannot perjure itself; it cannot be wholly absent,
only its interpretation can err. Only human failure
to find it, study and understand it, can diminish its
value." (Paul L. Kirk 1974).
In almost every criminal investigation it is necessary
to determine and prove that a particular person
or persons may or may not have been present at
the scene of a crime. For this reason, the
collection, preservation and analysis of physical
evidence has become more frequent in the law
enforcement community.
Around 1910, a criminologist by the name of
Edmond Locard arrived at a theory that every
time something comes into contact with another it
either takes or leaves a portion of itself or another.
This theory is called the Edmond Locard Theory,
which simply states "Every contact leaves its
trace." This theory is continually used today in
crime scene investigations and the analysis of
physical evidence.
Since criminals must enter and exiJ by nagob(�gpe
training i
continued from page t
pain are very simple and it is not something we "just
have to live with!"
Posture
In its normal alignment, the spine has an S curve when
viewed from the side. There are three curves: the
cervical lordosis, thoracic kyphosis and the lumbar
lordosis. These curves are very important because
they act as shock absorbers. Engineers have
estimated that maintaining the natural curves in our
spine gives about ten times the shock absorption of a
flat spine. Our lifestyles have developed in such a way
we spend much of our time sitting or in forward -bent
postures that reverse the curve in the low back and
alter the cervical curve, as well.
This curve reversal causes two things to happen.
First, the ligaments that support the spine are
stretched, and second, the disc gets uneven pressure
front -to -back, causing disc fluid to be pressed in a
backwards direction. Maintaining a slouched position
for extended periods of time may lead to achiness from
over -stretching the ligaments that support the spine
and may stretch the back of the disc wall. Being
aware of the position you are in and avoiding stressful
ones is a primary way to prevent the problem of back
pain. Keeping the low back supported when sitting,
keeping your head over your shoulders instead of out
in front, and keeping your shoulders open instead of
rolled forward can make a big difference. Posture and
balance go hand in hand.
Sprains/Strains
Sprains and strains typically occur when a joint or
muscle is overworked or unexpectedly stretched. (A
sprain is a ligament tear, and a strain is a muscle tear.)
They can also occur with prolonged stretch a, as may
occur when sitting in a slouched posture for a long
time. While it is impossible to completely prevent this
type of injury, maintaining good strength, flexibility and
posture are key points to remember.
Disc Problems
A disc with uneven pressure will begin to develop
abnormal wear patterns. The most common posture is
a reduced lordosis (flat or rounded low back) where
the nucleus is continually pressed against the back
wall of the disc. This occurs because fluids take the
path of least resistance. As you bend forward, the front
edge of the vertebrae move closer together and the
back opens up, creating a backward pressure. Over
time with this uneven distribution of pressure, the back
wall of the disc may begin to stretch and tear from the
inside out. As this occurs, disc fluid may leak into the
tear and continue to exert backward pressure. As
subsequent layers of cartilage tear, the wall becomes
thinner and, therefore, weaker. If the wall becomes
too thin, it will begin to bulge. (This is commonly
referred to as a "slipped" or "herniated" disc). When
this happens, the disc begins to bulge in a backward
direction and moves into the space occupied by the
nerve root and may pinch the nerve between the disc
and bones. This can cause pain or numbness. Most
disc problems resolve themselves sooner or later and
do not require invasive measures to repair. There are
treatments your doctor or therapist may offer to help
with pain control.
There are several things to consider when addressing
disc problems. Watching your posture and spending
more time in a balanced position is critical. Be aware
of the natural curves in your spine and try to
consciously put yourself into a better position
whenever you catch yourself slouching. Be aware of
the positions you spend a lot of time in and do
something to compensate for them. For instance, if
you spend much of your day sitting or leaning/reaching
forward, you can periodically stretch you spine
backward to compensate for all the forward bending.
Muscle Spasm
Muscle spasm is a response to pain. If your body
knows it hurts to go into a certain position, it will try to
avoid that position. If it hurts when a joint moves, your
body will try to immobilize that joint. This is
accomplished by involuntary muscle contraction.
Unfortunately, sometimes this contraction can become
a spasm that causes more pain. Fatigue can also
cause muscle spasms. Keeping your back muscles
toned is the best way to avoid spasms caused by
fatigue or overwork.
Arthritis
Arthritis is generally caused by wear and tear to the
joint surfaces, which can become rough instead of
smooth. It is critical to maintain lubrication in an
arthritic joint to help reduce friction between two rough
surfaces. An exercise program that includes flexibility
and strength training can help accomplish this.
Studies consistently show people who participate in
regular, modest exercise routines have less pain and
better function than arthritis sufferers who let the pain
get the best of them and become inactive. Moderation
is important.
Prevention
What can you do to prevent back pain from starting?
First, you need to exercise on a regular basis. Second
be aware of your posture. Stretching to maintain
flexibility in the spine, hips and shoulders is a critical
part of the exercise program. A regular cardiovascular
program of walking, running, cycling or some other
exercise will keep circulation good, as well as toning
the trunk and lower -body muscles. The Surgeon
General's report on exercise recommends 20-30
minutes of moderate exercise most days of the week.
Use lumbar support in seats and chairs that do not
adequately support the curve in your low back. There
are other things you can do. Supplying your body with
good nutrition is essential to health and healing.
Studies show smokers have a higher incidence of back
pain and the pain lasts longer than in people who don't
smoke.
Listen to your body and you usually won't go wrong. If
you feel you need further help, consult a health care
professional.
training 2
page 1
UPCOMING TRAINING
This is a partial listing of upcoming training that may be
available. DO NOT consider this a posting. Any letters
submitted based on this Will NOT be considered a request
to attend.
CALENDAR OF EVENTS
TRAINING EVENT
PLACE MONTGOMERY HALL
DATE BEGINNING01/10/00
MATS 2000
TRAINING EVENT
PLACE IOWA CITY LIBRARY
DATE FEB.23
NCIC recertification
TRAINING EVENT
PLACE MARSHALLTOWN
DATE FEB.21-25
Crime Scene Training
TRAINING EVENT
PLACE ILEA
DATE MARCH 7-8
Interview and Interrogation School.
This and That
areas it should therefore, be reasonably assumed
that they may leave traces of their footwear
Unfortunately, when a crime scene is improperly
secured or is disorganized, the search of the
scene often results in this type of impression
evidence being overlooked or destroyed. When
this type of physical evidence is properly
collected and preserved by the crime scene
investigator, followed up by a detailed
examination by a footwear expert, it can
become an important part in proving or
disproving a suspect was at the crime scene.
Why are Footwear Impressions
Overlooked?
Footwear impressions are overlooked for two
important reasons,
1. The lack of training and education in the
proper searching, collection and
preservation of the evidence and;
2. The evidence is undervalued or not
understood.
The failure to properly collect this type of
evidence revolves around the above -mentioned
two reasons but the lack of success in finding this
evidence is often due to:
a. Not believing that the impressions can be
found at the scene after people have
walked over the scene
b. Incomplete searches of the crime scene;
Continued pg 5
In an effort to "prioritize" policies, we will begin implementing a color coding system. While officers will be
accountable for all departmental directives, this will hopefully assist in the identification of policies which
officers must clearly and readily understand,and those which while important, are related more to the
administration of the department. This will be a three tiered system with policies being placed in one of the
teirs. For examaple,: RED: Policies which are critical in nature, i.e. Use of Force or Vehicle Pursuit. (Must
know) Green: Those which are important in nature, (they are issues which routinely affect officers) i.e. Vehicle
Crashes or Pat -Down Searches.(Need to know); Black: Those Policies which do not deal with life hazards and
do not affect officers on a regular basis, i.e. Forms Development (Nice to know). Implementation of this
procedure will begin as existing policies are reviewed and as new policies implemented.
For those interested in receiving a sample copy of Shotgun Sports, (see Low Back Pain article) call 800-676-
8920.
Few things are harder to put up with than a good example." Mark Twain
training 3
NCIC Recertification
We will be recertified in the use of MDTs on February
23, 2000. This year there has been a change in the
certification procedure. For those persons who have
previously been certified in the use of the MDTs, they
may elect to "skip" the class and attend a testing
session only. At this time it is anticipated that there will
be open testing from approx. 10:00 to 12:00. Officers,
ECOs, CSTs, records personnel, and others who have
previously been certified may opt to show up sometime
during this period and take the written test. If you fail
to achieve a passing score you may then attend the
afternoon classroom session.
All police employees who have not previously been
certified while employeed with IOWA CITY, must
attend a classroom session. There will be two
classroom sessions. The first one will run from approx.
08:00 to 09:00 with testing to take place immediately
thereafter; and again at approx. 13:30 to 14:30 with
testing again taking place immediately thereafter.
Previously certified employees who wish to attend one
of the classroom sessions may do so prior to testing.
Testing will consist of 50 questions with a score of
74% or greater to pass. Le. you can miss 13
questions and still pass the test. Study guides have
January Training
Members
Training
Hours
ICPD
MATS
32
81
ASLET
40
85
Sex Offender
16
Registry
Watch training 00-18,
29,19,31,32
44
FATS
.25
16 SPIT
Situational Training
8
been provided by the Iowa Department of Public
Safety and have been distributed. The study guide
contains a sample test. Some of the questions are:
Q. Iowa stolen vehilce information is considered
public information and IOWA system stolen vehicle
printouts can be given to persons upon request. T F
(T)
Q. Criminal history data cannot be disseminated
or redisseminated to the news media. T F (T)
Q. The switch provides:
A.
A communications Ilink between crimnal
justice agencies.
B.
A communications link between agencies
and computer files.
C.
Access to IOWA public files.
D.
A log of all transactions.
E.
All of the above.
(E)
Q. Stolen
credit cards:
A.
Are queried as securities.
B.
Are queried as articles.
C.
Cannot be queried.
(C)
CALEA UPDATE
As part of the accreditation process we are reviewing
general orders on a scheduled basis. As some of you
may have noticed during the past year, a review date
has been included on the first page of the general
order. As this date draws near, the order will be
reviewed. As a general rule, newly created/issued
general orders will be reviewed after one year for
problems, conflicts or other concerns. After the first
review, the general order will be given a review date
ranging from one to three years after the initial review.
The length of time between review is determined by
the criticality of the particular order. Le. vehicle
pursuits and use of force will be reviewed annually
while forms development may be reviewed every three
years. I will send a notice out via e-mail as a review
date draws near. Officers may respond with
comments, questions or other concerns within the
specified time period. These comments will be
considered in conjunction with the review. Upon
completion of the review, affected members will be
advised of any changes to the general order and an
effective date of the changes.
training 4
Continued from pg 3.
c. Weather conditions;
d. The impression has been intentionally
destroyed.
Protection of the Scene
The first officer at the crime scene should assess
and attempt to determine the entire area of the
crime scene, including paths of entry and exit and
any areas that may include evidence that a
suspect was present. Once this has been done
the area of the crime scene should be completely
secured and evidence marked for later
documentation and collection.
Isolation of the area is crucial, to avoid analyzing
recently made footwear impressions that are not
related to the crime scene.
There are many ways to secure footwear
evidence in and around the crime scene. Once
the area is secured and the crime scene is
established the officer on the scene should make
sure the entire scene is marked off using crime
scene barricade tape, and no one should be
permitted to enter until the crime scene
investigator responds. In some cases where
weather might have an effect on the footwear
evidence, the first officer may place boxes,
cones, etc. over the impressions until the crime
scene investigator arrives. Remember, do not alter
the evidence prior to any photographs.
Searching the Crime Scene
Always be aggressive and alert. Footwear
evidence should be one of the first considerations
at the crime scene. Once the scene has been
made safe by the first officer(s) on the scene, it
should then be secured for the crime scene
investigator.
Footwear evidence can be found at almost all
crime scenes in two forms, impressions and prints.
The techniques in recording such evidence may
be different, but the search is basically the same.
Always use a methodical and planned method of
searching. Never blind search a crime scene. The
only footwear evidence that is not found is that
which is not searched for.
During an interior search, all surfaces where the
suspect(s) may have entered or exited the scene
should be carefully examined since most of the
residue on the shoes from the outside surfaces
may contain valuable impressions which are not
easily seen under normal lighting conditions.
Whether the impressions are indoors or out, they
should be photographed, documented, lifted
and/or cast.
Crime Scene Footwear Evidence
Footwear evidence can be found in two forms,
impressions and prints. The impression is normally
described as a three-dimensional impression, such
as an impression in mud or a soft material; and the
print is described as a print made on a solid
surface by dust, powder, or a similar medium.
Footwear evidence, as well latent fingerprint
evidence, is classified into three categories of
crime scene prints:
1. Visible Prints
2. Plastic Prints
3. Latent Prints
The Visible Prints: A visible print occurs when the
footwear steps into a foreign substance and is
contaminated by it, and then comes in contact
with a clean surface and is pressed onto that
surface
The Plastic Prints: Plastic prints are impressions that
occur when the footwear steps into a soft surface,
such as deep mud, snow, wet sand, or dirt
creating a three-dimensional impression.
The Latent Prints: Latent prints are the most
overlooked print and are generally found on
smooth surfaces. They can be developed the
some way latent fingerprints are.
Crime Scene Photographs
Footwear impressions can be located in and
outside the crime scene. Remember, the suspect
had to arrive and depart the scene. The location
that will later be photographed in detail should be
photographed showing the general crime scene
and surrounding areas.
Complete article Footwear, The Missed Evidence
is available. Contains information on collecting
footprint evidence.
training 5