Non-Lethal Force: MPs train on safer weapons systems

Photo By Master Sgt. Edward Daileg | Staff Sgt. Randy Kite, a non-lethal weapons instructor with the 105th MP Battalion, demonstrates how to use the taser gun during the non-lethal weapons training.  

BAGHDAD, IRAQ

01.10.2011

Story by Staff Sgt. Edward Daileg 

305th Mobile Public Affairs Detachment

BAGHDAD - In theater internment facilities, soldiers use non-lethal weapons insituations to limit the escalation of force and avoid the use of lethal weapons in the process of gaining compliance.

The 105th Military Police Battalion conducted training with soldiers from Victory Base Complex, Iraq, to familiarize themselves with two types of non-lethal weapons, Jan. 10, at Camp Cropper.

The training gave soldiers a chance to operate the taser gun and Oleoresin Capsicum spray to let them experience the effectiveness of the weapons.

“Instead of having to go directly to lethal force, the soldier can apply a standoff with a non-lethal weapon to gain compliance of the subject without having to risk injury to themselves or the person they need to control,” said Staff Sgt. Randy Kite, the non-lethal weapons instructor with Headquarters Headquarters Company, 105th MP Bn.

The training occurred in two phases; the first consisted of classroom instruction, which focused on the basic functions and capabilities of the weapon systems. During the second phase, participants went through handson training on how to use the weapon systems and experience what they can do to a non-compliant person.

“After the classroom and hands-on portion of the training, I had a better understanding of how to use the weapon systems,” said Spc. Mara Hanson, a truck driver with Company A, 145th Brigade
Support Battalion.

“This will help us determine the use of force and what weapon to use because we know how each system works and how it affects a person were using it on,” she said.

Soldiers agreed that the most difficult part of the training was experiencing the severe symptoms of the non-lethal weapons.

“The OC spray gives you a horrible burning sensation that almost feels like grains of sand are in your eyes,” said Pfc. Jonathan Giorgio, a scout with Eagle Troop, 2nd Squadron, 3rd Armored Cavalry Regiment. “You have to be mentally and physically prepared to deal with such pain.”

“The taser gives you multiple poundings throughout your body and all your muscles stiffen up to where you can no longer stand,” said Hanson.

Hanson said learning the affects of the weapon systems helps her determine what is most efficient to use on a non-compliant person.

“Now that I have the knowledge and experience from the training, it gives me an idea on what considerations I should take before determining the use of force,” said Giorgio.

Kite applauded the professionalism of the soldiers who participated in the rigorous and sometimes painful training through the end.

• Date Taken: 01.10.2011
• Date Posted: 01.29.2011 02:43
• Story ID: 64431
• Location: BAGHDAD, IQ