In response to the recent Police1 Tactical Tip “Off-Duty Incident ID”, NYPD Officer Sean McLaine writes, “That is a hot topic right now in Rhode Island where an off-duty officer (gun in hand) ran to assist two uniformed officers who mistook him for a criminal and shot him. The family is now suing the uniformed officer for wrongful death and suing the police department and the city for not properly training the uniformed officer. The first thing they told us about this topic at the firing range is that it is up to the off-duty officers to properly identify themselves before presenting a firearm. This tip is an excellent reminder of why it is best to collect your thoughts rather than just run into a situation.”
This likely ranks among a list of such incidents and it stands as an illustration of how crucial it is for you--and your family--to take off-duty survival very seriously. For more off-duty survival tips and tactics, read the following:
Original tip submitted by Police1 Contributor Scott Buhrmaster:
One of the crucial steps in protecting yourself in an armed, off-duty encounter while wearing plain clothes is clearly identifying yourself as an officer to responding police personnel. If on-duty officers approach and see an unidentified person in plain clothes holding a gun, tragic consequences can follow. If you carry your weapon off-duty, consider carrying your ID on your weak side. This will allow you to draw and position your weapon with your strong hand,as you would normally do, while keeping your weak hand free to grab and display your credentials.
Related Police1 Tips:
Tips for Smart Off-Duty Living
Related Police1 Reports:
Blood Lessons: Lessons Learned from an Off-Duty Officer Involved in Fatal Shootout at a McDonald’s
Off-Duty Chicago Officer Shoots, Kills Gunman Who Killed Man, Shot Lawman