An inventive subject, particularly one who is no stranger to being hooked up, can defeat any type of temporary restraint given sufficient time and motivation. Remember to watch subjects in restraints because there are ways they can get their hands free and pose a serious threat to an officer.
As you watch this clip, it’s important to remember three key points regarding the use of Zip-ties and other temporary restraints.
1. Take your time
Remember that rip ties and the like are often used in mass arrest situations, like protests, because of how easy and cost effective it is for officers to carry multiple sets. In these situations, there can be a tendency to hurry through restraining the people in the group which, although understandable, isn’t advisable. Although appropriate speed and efficiency do play a role in mass arrest situations, too much haste can be dangerous. Take the time to watch for indicators that the subject you’re about to cuff is positioning himself to possibly escape. Watch for things like clenched fists or wrist positioning that’s against your direction. The escape artist in the clip will show you why.
2. Check the shoelaces
Listen closely for the guy in the clip mentioning that there’s para-chord in his shoelaces. Seconds later, he uses them to burn through the ties. If you spot shoelaces that clearly appear particularly able to burn through ties, deal with them appropriately. Remember that even though you may cuff that subject behind the back, in a mass arrest situation where multiple offenders may be sitting next to each other, those laces could be accessed by someone else in the group.
3. Watch, watch, watch
Ultimately the most important defense against escape is effective and consistent monitoring. As you watch this clip, take note of the movements of the guy demonstrating the techniques and watch for those—things like wrist rubbing, wrist bending, pulling your ankles up to your wrists, etc. Also take note of the fact that he escapes from a variety of cuffing applications, including behind the back and double cuffing. The lesson: never, ever let your guard down.
