Unit Order #9 - Stop Stick Deployment

Crescenta Valley Station no longer has “Spike Strips” in its inventory.  These devices have been replaced with the “Stop Stick” device.  This unit order has been revised to establish station policy regarding the deployment of these devises.

It is the policy of the Crescenta Valley Station that Stop Sticks shall be deployed in the field for use in cases of a pursuit or other instances when it is imperative to stop a vehicle’s progress.

The Stop Sticks shall be readily available in those vehicles that have Stop Sticks permanently mounted in the vehicle’s trunk.  Deputy personnel shall not remove the Stop Sticks from a vehicle which has the device installed unless the removal is required for deployment or training.  All deputies assigned to the field shall be trained in the proper use of the Stop Stick.  In cases where a deputy has not been trained and he/she is working one of the deployment units, the Stop Stick shall remain in the unit.  The untrained deputy shall not utilize the Stop Stick in a pursuit without a trained deputy assisting.

The Stop Stick device is significantly different in design from the previous Road Spike device. The Stop Stick utilizes a tether-based employment system. This presents unique officer safety issues not found with the remote control employment of the Road Spikes.

The design of the tether-based Stop Stick requires that employing personnel be in closer proximity to the suspect vehicle than was necessary with the Road Spike. Personnel shall use protective cover to protect themselves from the suspect vehicle.                                                                                                                                 

Note:   A patrol vehicle does not provide adequate cover or protection and as such should be avoided.  This type of cover or protection is highly discouraged.

Deputy personnel should note the presence of the Stop Stick on their DDWs and Vehicle Inspection slip at the beginning of their assigned shift.  Any damaged or unusable Stop Sticks should be brought to the attention of the watch sergeant.

This Unit Order is intended to compliment Field Operations Directive 98-10, “Spike Strips,” until such time when “Spike Strips” are no longer in service and the FOD is revised.