Document text
FM 3-19.15
CIVIL
DISTURBANCE
OPERATIONS
Headquarters, Department of the Army
April 2005
DISTRIBUTION RESTRICTION: Approved for public release; distribution is unlimited.
This publication is available at
Army Knowledge Online (www.us.army.mil) and
General Dennis J. Reimer Training and Doctrine
Digital Library at (http://www.train.army.mil)
Field Manual
No. 3-19.15
Chapter 1
Chapter 2
Chapter 3
Chapter 4
*FM 3-19.15 (FM 19-15)
Headquarters
Department of the Army
Washington, DC, 18 April 2005
Civil Disturbance Operations
Contents
Page
PREFACE creio a a aia hive ite didi eerie iv
OPERATIONAL THREATS OF THE CIVIL DISTURBANCE ENVIRONMENT ...... 1-1
General Causes for Civil UNEST. aretina eter eter rete eee A A ERA IRSE 1-1
Crowd Development: sccieeso.ccweetin ceed eiiiai et decisis ee ties ceieeae eae a aaa 1-2
GatheninQs yest: ees EEATT AA ATTA AAE 1-2
Growd'BüildiNgisisis ioii iatan ee ae eaaa i adeta aai aed iaaea 1-4
Dispersal Process of a Gathering ..........sssssssssssssrsrnrsenstsertertrtnnrnnnnaesatettnntnnnnnnnenneanent 1-4
Crowd. DYNAMICS 5.25 ssetedeczsszel aes sacuatel aa aa a aaa aeae a aaa a a a aa aE E ender 1-5
Crowd YPE Se ic kta steele ceed ee oa a a a a ted ae T 1-6
Crowd. Tacues eroten Eaa nE AE nee wack ec ec ed 1-7
Tactics Used to Defeat Authorities 2.0... eee eect eee eeeneeeeeettneeeeeeeeeteeaeeeeneeeaeees 1-9
WEAN ONS 45 sda tee EA tie toes: sea gyh hd ads cece pecgt tye SAG so cheteeua raat, Ms TETEE 1-9
CONTROL FORCE OPERATIONS ....00.......ccccccceccteeeeeeeeeneeeeeetaeeeeeetaeeeeeetnaeeeeeeeaa 2-1
Civil Disturbance Planning Considerations ...............ccccceeceeceeceecaeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeseentneaeees 2-1
Legal: Considerations Mrr n iener eee eae ehh aed aaa a ek hota reas eae aes 2-9
Multinational Operations 2.0.0... ec ceeeceeceee cette eee ee eee ceeaeaaaeaeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeseegeeaees 2-12
Scalable Effects ssc. c.0, steep cece a tah tees a ee eee eae aa 2-12
APPREHENSION, SEARCH, AND DETENTION ...............0.cceecceeeceeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeees 3-1
Legal Considerations i eeraa anaa eee eeee ents tetaaaaaeaeaaesaeeeeeeeeeeeenesaaaaaaaeaes 3-1
TYPes of SUDJOCtS ferevee cesses ee eed Have eee naked nav ee ean eee tees reads ee thn eevee 3-2
ADPFENENSION aa e tuted iene neta Madi a ate tot 3-3
RIOT SHIELD AND RIOT BATON TECHNIQUES... 4-1
EE E eee A pene crren A reer rea eree Creare cece A T E eres EE T 4-1
Riot Shela ne ede tives dace phia ie EA A tanita EAEE RE N A aa nahn 4-1
Distribution Restriction: Approved for public release; distribution is unlimited.
*This publication supersedes FM 19-15, 25 November 1985.
Contents
Chapter 5
Chapter 6
Chapter 7
Chapter 8
Appendix A
Appendix B
Page
Riot Baton ita anaana a elt e era vba ataia este navaa veda a evi ase 4-3
Working ása Team aiena a a a aaraa a aaa a aaeain a a daaa EENE 4-21
Nonlethal MUMITIONS soisi ssnin s a aa aaa adani 4-22
NONLETHAL CAPABILITIES SET AND EMPLOYMENT CONSIDERATIONS.... 5-1
Personnel Protectors meiraa areae aa a eaaa aana a a EE aaia oai Sa iaaea iai 5-1
Personnel EffECtorS enii a a a a i ia aa a la ney adada i aaea 5-4
Mission Enhancers 2.0.00... ...ccccceeeeeeeeneecceeae eee eeeeeee eee teeaaaaaeaaaaeceeeeeeeeeeeaseeasaeaaaaeeeeeeeeees 5-12
Core’ Capabilities ksk pa ana aa a tee lauded ated eee arai 5-20
Additional Capabilities s iniaa aaaea aa aaa Ea Taea aE TAAA 5-22
Employment Considerations............0::c:ccccccceeeceeeeeeeeceecceaeeeeeeeeeeeeeceeceeesueaeeeeeeenenes 5-22
Nonlethal Weapons Capabilities in Formations ..............:cccccccceeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeee 5-22
CIVIL DISTURBANCE FORMATIONS leenen 6-1
OVOIVICW 2. scceit cheered cons szaghes E AAAA derdventas, ibaa tig: contacts 6-1
Actions Before Movement ...........ccceeceececeeeee eee eeteceeeeneaaeeeeeeeeeeeeeceeceecuesaeeeeeeeeeeeeeeteneaa 6-2
Rally Point ACtomS i stscicgtetenexecsvaed vtech a Meh cal dei A a aa eaaa 6-3
Control Force Formations -sisses oiia aa e aa iaaa iN a in aai 6-3
Extraction Team Operations ........ cc ceceececcece eee eeeeeeececeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeceeecseeseeeeeeeeeeeeteniees 6-10
Lethal Overwatch Teams ...........:::::ccceeceeceeeeeeeeeeeeeececceaesaeeeeeeeeeeseeeeeciaaeeeeeeeeeetees 6-11
Reserve Forces pi naiur eshte icy a cova aa seen seen eds vei cae a Sore ean dese en ree 6-12
Squad Formations sse iisa ee a iit Se ee a eat) 6-13
CIVIL DISTURBANCE OPERATIONS IN CONFINEMENT FACILITIEG................ 7-1
Crowd Dynamics Within the Confinement Facility ......0..0....cccccecceeeceseeeceeeeeeeeeeeeeees 7-1
Use-of Chemicaliritants ei ale testes dea even dia ana these a a a aae aitaa 7-3
Record of EVE f Sp a a aa a a a a a a aa tienen aa a aa aaea inian 7-7
Tainga e eae a ai Ae ce a a aa See 7-7
EQUIP MOMs 2/42:.5c5azy obec) teh TEA TEATE E 7-8
Riot Control Formations. is ahanda eii aeaa aitia ari A ieia a adeil 7-9
Apprehension teams ssla nnana eaa ta ea aiaa anaa aaa tan 7-9
Forced Cell Move Teams ..............::ccsscccccecceeeeeeeeeeeeaaeaeceeeeeeeeeeeseeeaaaaaaaeaeeeeeeeeenes 7-12
CIVIL DISTURBANCE TRAINING 0... eee eeeeecee eee eeeneeeeeeeaaeeeeeteaeeeeeeneaaes 8-1
Unit Training Strategy DevelopMent................cccccecceceeececeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeesecenneaeeeeeeeeeeeees 8-1
Training Plan Development ..............:.::ecceeeeeceeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeaaeeeeeeeeeeeeeteesseesnaeeaeeees 8-1
Rañġe Setup sersa eee eaten a, cent A eae ee Wn ae eect ee a es 8-2
METRIC CONVERSION CHART ........... ccc etter eee eenneeeeeteneeeeeetetnaeeeeeneeeeees A-1
OPERATIONS AND LEGAL CONSIDERATIONS IN THE CONTINENTAL UNITED
STATES 8 yin Gee aarti ak ig eared ht E Se at ake eae B-1
Federal Intervention and Aid ......... eee eeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeneeeeeeenneeeeeeesntneaeeeensnaaeeees B-1
Roles and Responsibilities of Various AQ@[email protected] B-2
State and Local Government Responsibilities .........0....cccccceeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeceeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeees B-3
FM 3-19.15 18 April 2005
Appendix C
Appendix D
18 April 2005
Contents
Page
Legal Considerations and Constraints .0............cccceeeceeceeeeeeceeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeseeeeetsaaeeaeeees B-5
Support to Civil Law Enforcement .0............ccccccceceeeeeeee cette eee ee eee eee eceaaeeeeeeeeeeeeenees B-9
Lead Agency Concept and Role of Military .................ccccceceeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeseeettceeeeeees B-12
URBAN TERRAIN: ANALYSIS 1.3 sactid nit anti ia at C-1
Significant: FactoOrs:..caiwsns inneren Mi wa een Naka C-1
Urban Terrain. TYPp@S ania ei seen cee aii seeacd Fan eevee ae a nese dv ege aE C-2
Urban Form and Function 0... cece een cece eerneee eee eaaeeeeeeeaaeeeeeeeaaeeeeeteaeeeeeeneaas C-5
Unban: SOCIE aay eciet tian a aa a ai aa a aa a aa a a aa aa tad nities C-6
Urban: Infrastructure: risar aiins aea E EE A A OTELA ENRE dens C-6
PRACTICAL APPLICATION 3 eiccc. paste eid ti ase ei hae D-1
OVENVICW vive A ent ot a Ace a ee haa AA D-1
Procedure Seen nonesrded ceiil nde E Wine VG e D-1
GLOSSARY onasan ae i Sei a A D Magee Wee andes Glossary-1
BIBLIOGRAPHY -ea a eaa taa a Tea a a aaa aa ar aaaea Bibliography-1
INDEX ouen an A i A ee E Index-1
FM 3-19.15 iii
Preface
Field Manual (FM) 3-19.15 addresses continental United States (CONUS) and outside
continental United States (OCONUS) civil disturbance operations. Today, United States (US)
forces are deployed on peacekeeping, peace enforcement, and humanitarian assistance operations
worldwide. During these operations, US forces are often faced with unruly and violent crowds
intent on disrupting peace and the ability of US forces to maintain peace. Worldwide instability
coupled with increasing US military participation in peacekeeping and related operations
requires that US forces have access to the most current doctrine and tactics, techniques, and
procedures (TTP) necessary to quell riots and restore public order.
In addition to covering civil unrest doctrine for OCONUS operations, FM 3-19.15 addresses
domestic unrest and the military role in providing assistance to civil authorities requesting it for
civil disturbance operations. It provides the commander and his staff guidance for preparing and
planning for such operations. The principles of civil disturbance operations, planning and training
for such operations, and the TTP employed to control civil disturbances and neutralize special
threats are discussed in this manual. It also addresses special planning and preparation that are
needed to quell riots in confinement facilities are also discussed.
In the past, commanders were limited to the type of force they could apply to quell a riot. Riot
batons, riot control agents, or lethal force were often used. Today, there is a wide array of
nonlethal weapons (NLW) available to the commander that extends his use of force along the
force continuum. This manual addresses the use of nonlethal (NL) and lethal forces when quelling
a riot.
Appendix A complies with current Army directives, which state that the metric system will be
incorporated into all new publications.
The proponent for this publication is HQ, TRADOC. Send comments and recommendations on
Department of the Army (DA) Form 2028 (Recommended Changes to Publications and Blank
Forms) directly to Commandant, US Army Military Police School (USAMPS), ATTN: ATSJ-DD,
401 MANSCEN Loop, Fort Leonard Wood, MO 65473-8929.
Unless this publication states otherwise, masculine nouns or pronouns do not refer exclusively to
men.
iv FM 3-19.15 18 April 2005
Chapter 1
Operational Threats of the Civil Disturbance Environment
As the Cold War ended with the fall of the Berlin Wall and the collapse of
Soviet communism in 1989, the Army was no longer concerned with
containing the aggressive Soviet Union. The US Army began to transform
because the battlefield on which it would fight had changed. Operations
Just Cause, Joint Endeavor, Desert Shield, and Desert Storm have all
been recognized as containing nontraditional battlefields. Following these
operations, the Army was called upon to conduct peacekeeping, peace
enforcement, and humanitarian assistance operations. These operations
required US forces to protect refugees and humanitarian workers and
keep hostile factions separate to enforce peace.
GENERAL CAUSES FOR CIVIL UNREST
18 April 2005
1-1. In these modern times, demonstrations, civil unrest, public disorder, and
riots happen for a number of reasons. Some of these reasons are economic
hardships, social injustices, ethnic differences (leading to oppression),
objections to world organizations or certain governments, political grievances,
and terrorist acts. An event can be triggered by a single cause ora
combination of causes. For example, operations in the Balkans involving civil
unrest and riots were the result of ethnic hatred, a lack of civil authority, food
shortages, a revolution, and religious-based fighting factions.
1-2. Demonstrations may range from simple, nonviolent protests that address
specific issues, to events that turn into full-scale riots. Gatherings in protest
are recognized rights of any person or group, regardless of where US forces
may be operating. This fundamental right is protected under the
Constitution of the US. During peacekeeping or peace enforcement
operations, US forces should never violate basic civil or human rights. Most
protesters are law-abiding citizens who intend that their protests be
nonviolent, but some protest planners insist that the event involve some kind
of violence. Often, in the media, protesters can gain sympathy for their cause
by prompting authorities to take physical action against them. Violence is
often the result of demonstrators beginning to conduct unlawful or criminal
acts and authorities (who are responsible for the safety and welfare of all)
enforcing the laws of the municipality, state, or nation. The depth of violence
is determined by the willingness of demonstrators to display and voice their
opinions in support of their cause.
1-3. Commanders must be aware of the possibility that some individuals or
groups within an organized demonstration may have the intent to cause
disruption, incite violence, destroy property, and provoke the authorities. The
tactical situation and actions of the crowd should dictate control and
enforcement options. Agitators and criminal infiltrators within the crowd can
FM 3-19.15 1-1
Operational Threats of the Civil Disturbance Environment
lead to the eruption of violence. Inciting a crowd to violence or a greater
intensity of violence through the use of brutish enforcement tactics should be
avoided. Publicity can be detrimental to authorities and beneficial to crowds
because it can further their causes.
1-4. Community unrest results in urban conflicts that arise from highly
emotional social and economic issues. Economically deprived inner city
residents may feel that they are treated unjustly or ignored by people in power
and authority. Tensions can build quickly in a community over a variety of
issues, such as hunger, poor employment opportunities, inadequate
community services, poor housing, and labor issues. Tension in these areas
creates the potential for violence. When tensions are high, it takes a small
(seemingly minor) incident, rumor, or act of injustice to ignite groups within a
crowd to riot and act violently. This is particularly true if community relations
with authorities are part of the problem.
1-5. Significant ethnic differences in a community can create an atmosphere
of distrust, even hatred. Unrest among ethnic groups competing for jobs,
living areas, and sparse essentials can cause an eruption of civil disorder and/
or riots. As emotions run high, violence becomes likely.
1-6. Terrorist organizations may infiltrate groups within a demonstrating
crowd. These terrorist groups may intend to embarrass their government or
other governments. Terrorist infiltrators can be used to provoke crowds as a
diversion, as part of a demonstration, or as cover for terrorist acts.
CROWD DEVELOPMENT
1-7. Crowds are a gathering of a multitude of individuals and small groups
that have temporarily assembled in the same place. These small groups are
usually comprised of friends, family members, or acquaintances that
represent a group belief or cause. Individuals assume a sense of anonymity—
they are viewed as just another face in the crowd. People in small groups are
known only to companions in their group and to others in the gathering that
have come from the same neighborhood or community. Commanders must
consider how the individuals assembled and how they are interacting during
the gathering process.
GATHERINGS
1-8. The assembly process of a gathering refers to the movement of people
from different locations to a common location within a given period. This
largely determines who participates. Creating a gathering from a crowd is a
process with a beginning, middle, and end. As shown in Figure 1-1 a crowd
has an assembly process that leads to the gathering of the crowd, which is
always followed by a dispersal process.
1-9. Gatherings are often assisted by the activities of individuals or groups
with a specific agenda, such as yelling catchy slogans and cheers that
everyone can easily pick up and join in on. Some groups are so well organized
that they can prestage leaders to infiltrate a gathering. This creates unity,
FM 3-19.15 18 April 2005
Operational Threats of the Civil Disturbance Environment
even inciting newcomers to join their cause. The first phase of the gathering is
the assembly process. It can occur in one of two ways—impromptu or
organized.
assembly
process dispersal
gathering process
Figure 1-1. Crowd Building
IMPROMPTU GATHERINGS
1-10. Impromptu gatherings usually develop informally and are mostly done
by word of mouth (one person to another or one group to another).
Participants spread intelligence by telling one another when, where, and what
is happening and inviting them to participate. An example of an impromptu
gathering would be a gathering at a secured food distribution point after
receiving information (by word of mouth) that a large truck carrying
much-needed supplies and food is about to arrive. In this case, hunger would
be the driving force causing the migration of people to the food distribution
facility.
ORGANIZED GATHERINGS
18 April 2005
1-11. Like an impromptu gathering, an organized gathering can also involve
individuals and groups passing on information to one another. Passing
intelligence of police activity and occurrences and on when and where events
will take place helps organizers to prestage participants. Rarely is one
represented group responsible for pulling together a gathering. Organized
gatherings rely heavily on established groups that attract people to gather.
Recent examples of these well-organized groups are anarchists, anti-
globalization groups, and anti-free-enterprise groups. Groups representing
extreme religious faiths and ethnic organizations have been common too.
Some gatherings involve groups from rival, or even warring, factions.
1-12. Organized gathering processes rely more on centralized planning and
organization. One or more of the groups offer organizers lists of individual
names and groups, which they contact as potential participants. Modern
technologies are available to these organizers through telephone banks,
mailing lists, or e-mail addresses. In preparation for a long-term event, some
FM 3-19.15 1-3
Operational Threats of the Civil Disturbance Environment
group organizers have the means to provide logistical support of
transportation, food, and water to participants.
During the preelection period, Bosnian-Serbs (in a bid not to lose any of the
territory they had won during the war) began to organize this fiercely contested
city. Serbian mobs attacked US forces with bricks, rocks, metal bars, and
firebombs. Organization for this altercation started days before, as many
witnessed the prestaging of the items to be used in the attack. Wheelbarrows,
55-gallon metal drums, and other large containers were filled with the ammunition
that would later be used to attack peacekeepers.
Brcko, Bosnia
September 1996
CROWD BUILDING
1-13. The second phase of the gathering process is the building of the crowd.
Old concepts of crowds based on stereotypes are no longer true. Studies show
that—
e Crowds are made of many entities, and all participants are not the
same.
e Crowds are not made of isolated individuals but of a minority of
individuals and a majority of small groups who may or may not be
acquainted with each other.
e Groups and individuals in the crowd are not unanimous in their
motivation.
e Groups and individuals in the crowd are usually not anonymous to
each other, especially different groups gathered at the same place.
e Individuals within a crowd are not given to unique emotional displays;
although known within a group, most individuals would not want to
draw attention to themselves.
e Groups within a crowd will often act in unison in an attempt to
achieve their agendas.
e Crowds are generally not unique or distinguished by violence or
unlawful conduct.
DISPERSAL PROCESS OF A GATHERING
1-14. The last and final phase of any gathering of a crowd is the dispersal
process. It involves the movement of people from the common location where
they assembled to one or more alternate locations. The dispersal process ends
the gathering of a crowd or at least begins its decline. The dispersal can occur
on a routine, emergency, or coerced basis.
ROUTINE DISPERSAL
1-15. The routine dispersal may be specified in advance. It can also be
included in the assembly instructions given by the organizers of an event.
1-4 FM 3-19.15 18 April 2005
Operational Threats of the Civil Disturbance Environment
EMERGENCY DISPERSAL
1-16. An emergency dispersal occurs when people evacuate an area in result
of an unexpected crisis, such as a fire, explosion, bomb threat, or terrorist act.
Individuals in such an emergency quickly recover from the initial shock. They
keep their wits about them and improvise ways of extricating themselves and
their companions from the dangerous situation. However, tragedies have
occurred in some emergency dispersal situations. Therefore, it is important
that forces on the scene are careful not to misinterpret what is occurring.
COERCION DISPERSAL
1-17. Coercion dispersal is caused by the use of force at some level. This is not
necessarily the best way to force the dispersal of a crowd. The negotiated
management of crowds is the preferred method and has proven to be highly
successful in getting crowd organizers to police themselves, especially if the
demonstration and/or protest leaders are available and willing to participate.
CROWD DYNAMICS
18 April 2005
1-18. Understanding crowds and how individuals and groups form crowds
through the gathering process is important because these issues apply to the
dynamics of a crowd. Under most circumstances, gathered crowds are orderly
and present little or no problems for authorities. Crowds consist of people
who, although very motivated and passionate, are also subject to their own
need for creature comforts. Rainy, cold, and nasty weather has a way of
disheartening all but the few highly motivated and disciplined individuals. If
problems exist, they usually fall into the following three categories:
e Public disorder. Public disorder is a basic breach of civic order.
Individuals or small groups assembling have a tendency to disrupt the
normal flow of things around them.
e Public disturbance. Public disturbance is designed to cause turmoil
on top of the disruption. Individuals and groups assembling into a
crowd begin chanting, yelling, singing, and voicing individual or
collective opinions.
e Riot. A riot is a disturbance that turns violent. Assembled crowds
become a mob that violently expresses itself by destroying property,
assaulting others, and creating an extremely volatile environment.
1-19. Being part of a crowd of people has certain effects on different people.
Each individual in a crowd is susceptible to behaving in a way that is contrary
to their normal behavior. Some reasons for these behaviors are as follows:
e Crowds provide individuals with a sense of anonymity. With so many
others, an individual realizes that he is just another face in the crowd,
giving a sense of invulnerability.
e Crowd and individual behaviors are impersonal by nature. The
“them-against-us” attitude affords those within the crowd the ability
to freely (without hesitation or reservation) be verbally abusive, throw
objects, or attack anyone who gets in the way.
FM 3-19.15 1-5
Operational Threats of the Civil Disturbance Environment
e Crowds provide individuals with the idea that their moral
responsibilities have shifted from themselves as a person to the crowd
as a whole. Large numbers of people discourage individual behavior,
and the urge to imitate others within the crowd is strong. Individuals
look to others around them for cues of what to do next, disregarding
their own background and training. Often, it is only the strong, well-
disciplined person who can resist the prevailing behavior of a crowd.
e Crowd behavior influences the actions of both the disorderly
individuals of the crowd and the authorities tasked to control them.
1-20. Individuals within a crowd are at times driven by deep-felt emotions.
Emotional contagion is the most dramatic psychological factor of crowd
dynamics. It provides the crowd with a temporary bond of psychological unity.
Lasting long enough, this unity can push a simple organized crowd into a mob.
Normal law and authority are rejected en masse under these conditions,
increasing the potential for violence and panic to erupt.
1-21. Panic can erupt quickly, especially when crowds turn into mobs.
Individuals within the mob can easily sense that their safety and well-being
are at risk, putting them in a “fight-or-flight” mentality. Adding to the panic
and confusion is the use of riot control agents (RCAs) by authorities in an
attempt to gain control. Individuals in a mob, during the heat of
confrontation, may attempt to leave and find that there are no escape routes
and that roads are blocked. This can often lead to violent, physical attacks.
CROWD TYPES
1-22. Gaining an understanding of crowds and the dynamics that cause
individuals or groups to join together in a crowd should be every leader’s
responsibility. Active, expressive, acquisitive, and hostile are not acceptable
terms used to describe a crowd. They are the motives inferred from the actions
the crowd takes. No gathering of a crowd is persistently or exclusively active,
expressive, acquisitive, or hostile. For the sake of description, crowds can be
identified as casual, sighting, agitated, or mob-like.
CASUAL CROWDS
1-23. Casual crowds are identified as individuals or small groups with
nothing in common to bind them together. If they have an agenda, it is their
own. They arrive separately and leave separately. Casual crowds are made up
of individuals or small groups occupying the same common place, such as a
shopping mall where these individuals or small groups meet.
SIGHTING CROWDS
1-24. Sighting crowds are similar to casual crowds with one additional
element—an event. People migrate as a crowd to sporting events, are
attracted to fires and accidents, and attend music concerts. Individuals or
small groups gather at these events for the same purpose. It is the event and/
or one’s curiosity that compels a crowd to come together.
FM 3-19.15 18 April 2005
Operational Threats of the Civil Disturbance Environment
AGITATED CROWDS
1-25. Agitated crowds add responses that are based on the elements (people,
space, and event). Individuals with strong emotional feelings within a crowd
can quickly spread and infect the rest of the crowd. As more people within the
crowd become emotionally involved, a sense of unity can develop, causing
changes in the overall demeanor of the crowd. Yelling, screaming, crying, and
profane name-calling are all associated with an agitated crowd.
MOB-LIKE CROWDS
1-26. Mobs have all the elements found in the first three types of crowds, with
the addition of aggressive, physical, and sometimes violent actions. Under
these conditions, individuals within a crowd will often say and do things they
usually would not. Extreme acts of violence and property damage are often a
part of mob activities. Mobs consist of (or involve) the elements of people and
groups being mixed together and becoming fluid.
CROWD TACTICS
1-27. During a public disorder or disturbance, individuals and small groups
within a crowd use any number of tactics to resist authority and disrupt and
add turmoil in order to achieve their goals. These tactics can be unplanned or
planned and violent or nonviolent. The more organized and purposeful a
crowd becomes, the more likely a tactic will be used.
NONVIOLENT BEHAVIOR
1-28. As explained earlier in this chapter, most gatherings of individuals and
small groups into a crowd do not involves violent behavior. A public disorder
or disturbance usually involves some harmless name-calling, demonstrations
to express views, corporate yelling and chanting, and even singing and
dancing. In some instances, there may be property damage and the erection of
makeshift barricades. All four types of crowds can be nonviolent, but mobs
and agitated crowds have the greatest tendency to turn violent. Nonviolent
actions of a crowd are disruptive because they are in direct conflict with what
authorities want them to do, such as refusing to leave when directed, locking
arms, and sitting in front of or around areas and buildings that the authorities
are attempting to clear.
VIOLENT BEHAVIOR
18 April 2005
1-29. A crowd that becomes a mob can be very violent and destructive.
Although some nonviolent activities occur, violent crowds strike out physically
at bystanders or others in the crowd, destroying both private and government
property, setting fires, and employing bombs (in extreme cases). The only
limitations for violent crowds are their own imaginations, the training of their
leaders, and the materials readily available.
1-30. Violent crowds may erect barricades and physical barriers to impede the
movement of authorities and prevent them from entering certain areas and/or
buildings and to hide their activities. Common materials used for barricades
FM 3-19.15 1-7
Operational Threats of the Civil Disturbance Environment
RIOTS
include vehicles, felled trees, furniture, felled light poles, fencing materials, or
anything else on hand and readily available.
1-31. Setting fires and preventing firefighters access to the structure by
blocking it is another violent crowd tactic. Often, fires are set to create
confusion in authorities or as a diversion to another activity.
1-32. A riot is one or more groups or individuals who are part of a larger
crowd that involves threats of violence against persons or property. In some
cases, a crowd will continue to gather until it evolves into a riot.
1-33. Riots vary considerably in both targets and players. A communal riot,
for instance, deals with deep-seated ethnic, religious, and language
differences. Commodity riots involve an attack on property by acts of
vandalism, looting, and arson. Protest riots, such as the riot around the World
Trade Organization (WTO) Assembly in Seattle, Washington (80 November
1999), illustrated individuals and groups aggressively and sometimes
violently acting out or voicing their opposition to the assembly. The
Democratic Convention in Chicago, Illinois, in 1968 reflects a riot that directly
targeted police and authority in general. Celebration riots occur across the US
as a result of home team victories in sporting events, among other reasons.
Celebrating crowds look to make the moment more memorable through
raucous acts that demonstrate their joy or happiness, for example, the riots
that took place in Chicago in 1992 as a result of the Chicago Bulls winning the
National Basketball Association (NBA) Championship.
1-34. Commanders and leaders must be aware that highly organized groups
of protesters and/or demonstrators have developed tactics to disrupt the
control force. These crowd tactics were published in handbooks for communist
organizers during the Cold War, and today the Internet contains sites that are
devoted to sharing these tactics with the general public and various protest
groups. Although these tactics are somewhat outdated, commanders and
leaders must be aware of them and their potential consequences. Many of
these groups, such as anarchists, often mock the tactics employed against
large crowds; for example, they may identify the police as “Darth Vader Cops”
when the control force response is in full riot control gear. Commanders must
be aware that well-organized crowds may attempt to engage the control force,
surround it, and overpower it by sheer numbers. To avoid this, commanders
must do a detailed terrain analysis (intelligence preparation of the battlefield
[IPB]) of the area to include all approach and exit routes in the area. The
control force flanks have to be protected to avoid being enveloped by the mob.
To avoid being enveloped, the on-site commander should keep the crowd at a
comfortable distance from the control force formation, which is usually the
lethal zone of his NL munitions. Establishing predetermined rally points for
the control force is critical in the event that this type of tactic is used by the
crowd.
FM 3-19.15 18 April 2005
Operational Threats of the Civil Disturbance Environment
TACTICS USED TO DEFEAT AUTHORITIES
BARRICADES
1-35. Organized mobs will try to defeat the control force by employing several
different types of tactics. These tactics include the following:
e Constructing barricades.
e Using Molotov cocktails, smoke grenades, rocks, and slingshots.
e =©Feinting and flanking actions.
1-36. By constructing barricades, the rioters are trying to protect themselves
from assault by the control force. If the control force does advance toward the
barricade, rioters hope that the barricade will split the control force and leave
it vulnerable to actions by the mob.
MOLOTOV COCKTAILS, SMOKE GRENADES, ROCKS, AND SLINGSHOTS
1-37. Angry mobs will often attempt to disrupt the control force by throwing
rocks and other projectiles. As the situation deteriorates, the mob may
escalate the violence by using a battery of slingshots that will pellet the
control force with a barrage of projectiles ranging from small rocks to marbles.
They may also use smoke grenades (homemade or store-bought) to mask their
movements. Finally, Molotov cocktails are used against personnel, employed
vehicles, and portions of the control force. The mob will attempt to gain a
position above an armored vehicle to enable them to drop a Molotov cocktail
into an open hatch.
FEINTING AND FLANKING ACTIONS
WEAPONS
VERBAL ABUSE
18 April 2005
1-38. Organized mobs may attempt to disrupt the movement of the control
force by feinting an assault. When the control force moves to blunt the assault,
the mob will assault the exposed flanks in an attempt to split the control force
and envelop a portion of it.
1-39. Mobs will often use various types of weapons against authorities to
achieve their agendas and goals. It is extremely important that leaders train
soldiers to recognize possible threats of the various weapons used by crowds or
mobs, enabling the soldiers to react with the appropriate minimum force.
1-40. In almost every instance of a civil disturbance or riot, verbal abuse will
be an aggressive tool. Obscene language, racial remarks, taunts, ridicules, and
jeers should always be expected. It is apparent that the purpose for using
verbal abuse is to anger, demoralize, and provoke a physical response.
Undisciplined, untrained soldiers who face such an attack could cause the
situation to escalate. Just one provoked action of a soldier could be interpreted
as an act of brutality by the media.
FM 3-19.15 1-9
Operational Threats of the Civil Disturbance Environment
PERCEIVED INNOCENT PEOPLE OR THE WEAK
1-41. Women, children, and the elderly have often been used as pawns in civil
disturbance operations. On many occasions, the innocent and the weak are
moved to the front of the crowd and used as a barrier. With the innocent and
the weak directly facing authorities, aggressive and violence-prone
individuals or groups behind them attempt to provoke authorities to react.
Often, this tactic is to exploit the situation in the eyes of the media for
propaganda value. Despite the perception of sometimes being weaker, women,
children, and the elderly can be just as committed to the insurgency as those
behind them.
BARRICADES
1-42. Barricades are made of anything large or heavy enough to impede or
prevent the movement of authorities. Trees, vehicles, fires, and furniture are
all examples of items used to erect a barricade.
THROWN OBJECTS
1-43. In many cases, a crowd will throw anything in their reach that can be
picked or picked up. Rotten fruit and/or vegetables, rocks, bricks, bottles,
sticks, and pieces of lumber are most often used because they are readily
available. More sophisticated types of thrown objects are improvised bombs,
such as petrol bombs or tennis balls with nails sticking out of them. Never
discount that these individuals and groups could acquire hand-thrown
explosives, such as sticks of dynamite or grenades.
VEHICLES AND OTHER OBJECTS
FIRE
FIREARMS
1-10
1-44. Vehicles and other objects can be placed on higher ground (atop a hill or
in a building) to disrupt civil disturbance operations. For example, a vehicle or
tire can be set on fire and rolled down a hill, carts or barrels filled with
hazardous or flammable materials can be pushed down a hill, or burning
furniture and petrol bombs can be thrown from two-story or higher buildings
or toward a formation of soldiers.
1-45. Rioters have set buildings, vehicles, and other structures on fire to block
the advances of authorities and to create confusion and diversions. If property
damage is the goal of a crowd, fire is an effective tool. A sniper, for example,
may set a building on fire to divert attention or provide maximum target
possibilities. Other tactics used, particularly in the Balkans, were to flood the
lower floors or basements of structures with flammable liquids or gas and
then ignite it in an opportune moment.
1-46. Sniping or massing fire from within the crowd, in buildings, or other
covered positions can (at times) be effective tools for terrorists using a crowd
to cover their acts. Firearms are anything that fires a projectile toward a
target of opportunity.
FM 3-19.15 18 April 2005
Operational Threats of the Civil Disturbance Environment
EXPLOSIVES
1-47. A bomber’s imagination is the only limiting factor in the use of
explosives. Explosives can be used as simple diversions to block the advances
of formations or provide an escape for rioters. The worst use of explosives is to
purposely kill, injure, or demoralize authorities that are protecting and
assuring the safety of everyone.
18 April 2005 FM 3-19.15 1-11
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Chapter 2
Control Force Operations
Information is the key to developing civil disturbance plans. One must
know who the demonstrators are; when, where, and why they are
demonstrating; what their capabilities are; and what their possible course
of action (COA) is. A commander’s need for current, valid information
cannot be overemphasized. The commander must learn as much as he can
about the participants (their motivations, strategies, tactics, targets, and
dedication). The more knowledge a commander has about the participants,
the better equipped he is to counter their actions. He needs sound
information to decide how to best use his available resources.
CIVIL DISTURBANCE PLANNING CONSIDERATIONS
2-1. The side that possesses better information and uses that information to
gain understanding has a major advantage over its opponent. Forces that
have this advantage can use it to bring about changes in attitudes, decisions,
and actions in assembled demonstrators. In planning for crowd control or civil
disturbance operations, planners must decide what data is needed to develop
threat assessments. This decision is based on a multitude of information
sources.
STANDARDIZED POSTURES IN COMPANY TACTICAL STANDING OPERATING
PROCEDURES
18 April 2005
2-2. Within squads, platoons, and companies, equipment may be increased or
decreased, as needed. Some examples are as follows:
e Choose the M9 pistol for extraction and apprehension teams. The use
of a long weapon (for example, an M16 with an M203, an M4 with an
M203, or a 12-gauge shotgun) with NL munitions capability is also
recommended, especially for overwatch personnel.
e Add nonstandard weapons such as shotguns for greater NL
capabilities.
NOTE: The shotgun is used to protect the M203 gunner as he reloads.
e Add NL munitions to existing organic weapons systems, such as the
M203.
e Arm soldiers in the front line of the formation with their standard
weapon. If the weapon is a long weapon, it should be carried across the
back from left to right or vice versa, with the butt up and muzzle
down. Ensure that the weapon is cleared and that the magazine is in
the appropriate ammunition pouch.
FM 3-19.15 2-1
Control Force Operations
e Balance the mix of weapons and munitions according to the mission,
enemy, terrain, troops, time available, and civilian considerations
(METT-TC).
e Establish command relations and determine who has or gives the
authority to fire NL munitions.
e Maximize the distance and barriers between the crowd and control
formations. Use NL munitions to create a standoff distance.
e Maintain a lethal overwatch of the control force at all times.
e Maintain a reserve force at all times to reinforce the control force, as
needed.
e Create NLW range cards for static positions.
e Consider environmental conditions and their effect on the
performance of NL munitions. Proper storage, periodic inspections,
and the rotation of NL munitions are critical to maintaining the
effectiveness and viability of NL munitions.
WEAPON AND AMMUNITION CONFIGURATIONS
2-2
2-3. Individuals designated as NL shooters must have the means to transition
to lethal rounds, if required. Lethal rounds are carried separately from NL
rounds so that the shooter will not confuse them in the heat of confrontation.
However, in the heat of confrontation where a lethal option is necessary, NL
rounds can be used lethally by adjusting the point of aim to a vulnerable part
of the body and closing in on the distance to the target.
2-4. Squad leaders should designate NL shooters within their squad. Ideally,
the squad should not change its organization to accommodate NLW.
2-5. Commanders should not dispatch NL patrols. They should plan a combat
or security patrol with NL capabilities. Soldiers are never sent in harm’s way
without lethal protection. NLW are only considered additional tools for the
mission and not a mission in itself. There is no such thing as a NL mission.
2-6. Soldiers manning a static position should have NL capabilities depending
on METT-TC. Shotguns and the M208 work well at static positions.
2-7. Recovery, apprehension, and/or extraction teams should be established
before deployment. Team members should be equipped with personal
protective equipment (PPE), an M9, NL munitions and weapons, and Flex-
Cufs®. They should have some training in open-hand control, pain
compliance, and handcuffs and/or Flex-Cufs.
2-8. Crowd control formations (see Chapter 6) should be well trained and well
rehearsed. Rapid, coordinated movements of a well-trained and well-
rehearsed control force can often be a strong enough deterrent. A lethal
overwatch marksman always covers the control force.
2-9. During a NL engagement, the use of designated marksmen (DM)
provides confidence and safety to those facing a riot. The DM in an overwatch
position scans the crowd to identify threats and designate personnel for
recovery and lethal rounds firing (if a lethal threat is presented). They are
ideally suited for flank security and countersniper operations.
FM 3-19.15 18 April 2005
Control Force Operations
NONLEHTAL PLANNING
2-10. The fundamental principles of mission planning are not changed by the
incorporation of NLW into a plan. NLW are intended to be operational-
enhancement tools. The first concern of a commander is the successful
completion of the mission. NL munitions provide a commander with a wider
range of response options, but these munitions are not a replacement for
lethal capabilities. Commanders must always be capable of answering a lethal
attack with a lethal response.
2-11. When a commander commits his soldiers and equipment to a crowd
control situation, he commits his forces with the additional tools of NL
capabilities. This is an addition to the force continuum that the force
commander now has available to him. Commanders that properly employ NL
munitions and weapons have a tactical advantage over those who rely
completely on lethal means.
2-12. When developing a tactical standing operating procedure (TSOP) (see
Chapter 6), units should consider the following:
e Crowd control formations.
e Extraction teams.
e Apprehension teams.
e Lethal overwatch marksmen and/or observer teams.
e Reserve and/or security forces.
MILITARY WORKING DOG TEAMS
2-13. Military working dog (MWD) teams may be employed with a control
force formation as a method of increasing crowd apprehension about
approaching or engaging the formation. The teams should be in the rear of the
formation in plain sight of the crowd, but in front of the command element and
the M33A1 squad RCA disperser. The MWD teams work back and forth
behind the formation as an intimidation measure. The presence of the MWD
may produce a profound psychological effect on the crowd. These teams may
also be used to help control individuals who have been captured by the
recovery and apprehension teams.
CAUTION
Do not unleash an MWD on a crowd.
COMBAT CAMERAMEN
18 April 2005
2-14. Video and still cameramen should make a photographic record of the
individuals in the crowd who are leaders and instigators. Events must be
documented to hold personnel, factions, gangs, or groups accountable for acts
that violate law, destroy property, or cause physical harm. Electronically
recording events aids in the prosecution of such cases and eliminates the
sense of anonymity that people in large crowds often feel.
FM 3-19.15 2-3
Control Force Operations
INFORMATION OPERATIONS
2-4
2-15. Information superiority helps forces to anticipate problems and
requirements. It allows commanders to control situations earlier and with less
force, creating the conditions necessary to achieve the optimal end state.
Public affairs, psychological operations (PSYOP), and civil military operations
are activities that will allow the commander to control situations earlier and
with less force.
2-16. Information is available from a multitude of sources. A diversity of
sources is the best approach because it prevents biased perspectives. Primary
sources are as follows:
e Open sources.
a Libraries.
a Newspapers and news periodicals.
a Radio and television.
a Internet.
e Law enforcement sources.
a Local law enforcement agencies.
a National law enforcement agencies.
e Military sources.
a Department of Defense (DOD) intelligence community (most
restrictive source).
a Local military intelligence (MD) field offices.
2-17. Police intelligence operations (PIO) is one of the five military police
functions. This function is a process of actively and passively collecting
information that is of a police, criminal, or combat nature. As military police
perform the other four functions of maneuver and mobility support (MS), area
security (AS), law and order (L&O), and internment and resettlement (I/R),
they are gathering information that supports, enhances, and contributes to
the commander’s protection program, situational awareness, and battlefield
visualization by portraying relevant threat information that may affect
operational and tactical environments.
2-18. IPB is a continuous process for analyzing the threat and the
environment of a specific geographic area. During the IPB process, the
Intelligence Officer (US Army) (S2) or Assistant Chief of Staff, G2
(Intelligence) (G2) uses all available databases, intelligence sources and
products, and related MI discipline to analyze the threat and the
environment. The PIO function supports this process by providing the S2 with
collected police, criminal, and combat information that can directly and
significantly contribute to the success of the MI effort. In addition to combat
information, the PIO function provides additional information on possible
criminal threats and COAs. This is intended to support the S2 IPB process
and can be used by the commander to upgrade force protection. (See
FM 19-10.)
FM 3-19.15 18 April 2005
Control Force Operations
THREAT ANALYSIS
2-19. Crowd control requires its own thought process. Emphasis should be on
prevention rather than confrontation. In combat, military forces are taught to
fight and eliminate threats. In crowd control, military forces must deal with
noncombatants that have internationally recognized rights. These rights must
be respected while maintaining public order. This is an issue that law
enforcement agencies (LEAs) have been struggling with for years.
2-20. Dealing with crowd control incidents is a matter of using some basic
guidelines. It also includes asking the right questions in a logical manner so
that key issues are not omitted. The commander must use these guidelines in
context with METT-TC and the location of the incident (CONUS or
OCONUS).
PREINCIDENT PLANNING
2-21. This phase of planning begins before the incident and is initiated at the
operational level with guidance from the strategic level. The planning
includes guidance on crowd control and addresses responsibilities, training,
organization, operating procedures, use of force (CONUS), and/or rules of
engagement (OCONUS). The most difficult and productive decisions are those
made in the preincident planning process.
Avoid Confrontation
2-22. Crowd situations are highly unpredictable, but one thing seems
certain—confrontation will likely cause crowd resistance. When pushed,
people tend to resist opposition to the realization of their purposes.
Focus on Prevention
Define Goals
2-23. Planning should key in on the prevention of unfavorable outcomes.
Experience has shown some LEAs attempting to help crowds accomplish their
goals within the law that have been beneficial and even led to conceding some
violations for the purpose of avoiding confrontation. However, LEAs maintain
a law enforcement presence, which signifies social restraint. LEAs also decide
when and where they will not compromise and the amount of force to use.
2-24. When defining a goal, deciding what must be accomplished is the first
step. Defining the goal is fundamental. However, actually working toward and
accomplishing the goal is easier said than done, as the process can drive the
situation. Commanders and leaders must be aware of this. The military force
must focus on what they are trying to accomplish.
BACKGROUND INFORMATION AND INTELLIGENCE
18 April 2005
2-25. Seek to know as much as possible about social protest groups (within
the limits of the law, see Appendix B) before an incident. This will provide
insight into the organization and its functions and provide a warning as to
what to expect. When you know as much about these organizations as
possible, then it is possible to anticipate their next move. See Appendix C.
FM 3-19.15 2-5
Control Force Operations
2-26. Continually assess what is to be accomplished against what others are
trying to accomplish. Some groups may not have goals that conflict with those
of US forces, but their actions may. Other groups may have goals and
activities that do conflict. In either case, the assessment of group goals
compared to the goals of US forces helps to understand and avoid potential
conflicts.
CIVIL DISTURBANCE OPERATIONS PREPARATION
2-27. Counterdemonstration workgroups are a mixture of traditional and
nontraditional staff proponents brought together to coordinate the resources
to be employed by task force (TF) units before a potential civil disturbance.
Meetings of the counterdemonstration workgroup are held on a regular basis
(generally weekly) and are chaired by the Assistant Chief of Staff G3
(Operations and Plans) (G3). The following staff proponents may be involved,
and others may be involved as needed:
e Public affairs office (PAO).
e Joint military commission (JMC), if organized.
e Provost marshal office (PMO).
e PSYOP.
e G2, Assistant Chief of Staff G5 (Civil Affairs) (G5), Assistant Chief of
Staff G6 (Signal) (G6).
e Civil affairs (CA).
e Army airspace command and control (A2C2).
e Chaplain.
e Engineer.
e Surgeon.
e Fire support element (FSE).
RELATIONSHIPS DEVELOPMENT
2-6
2-28. Working relationships between commanders and protest group leaders
are increasingly seen as the best means for preventing bad outcomes in crowd
situations. This is called the negotiated management model of crowd control.
LEAs in large metropolitan cities in the US and Europe practice it.
2-29. Open dialog helps develop working relationships between commanders
and protest group leaders, providing an opportunity to communicate clearly.
Talking allows group leaders to tell authorities and tactical commanders what
they want to accomplish. It also allows authorities and commanders to tell
group leaders what they are prepared to do and how they might respond to
certain crowd behaviors. Such communications can do much to resolve issues
and prevent violence.
2-30. Commanders may not be able to talk to all leaders before a crowd
assembles. Some groups do not have recognized leaders and are ad hoc
organizations. Other groups may have several leaders, but only some of those
leaders will negotiate. In such cases, meetings with some leaders may tell you
who the other leaders are and provide critical information. Negotiations may
also encourage more moderate leaders to do things that will support the
commander.
FM 3-19.15 18 April 2005
Control Force Operations
2-31. Initiate communication with group leaders to work out issues before an
event. Commanders should make a concentrated effort to maintain a working
relationship with the leaders of protest groups.
2-32. Communication also means persuasion. Commanders should make a
concerted effort to win over demonstration leaders. Commanders may tell
group leaders that they want to help them complete their mission in a safe
manner. They should encourage demonstrators to protest in an acceptable
way and, if possible, offer favors to get them to do just that.
NOTE: Commanders must only offer what they are willing and able to
deliver.
2-33. Several rules apply in negotiations, and credibility is key. Only
communicate necessary information and those actions that authorities and
commanders intend to do. Negotiations are made from a position of strength,
and by negotiating an agreement may be reached. However, contingencies
should be developed in the event that the agreement is violated.
2-34. Working relationships between commanders and protest group leaders
often result in protest groups policing themselves. This is one of the basic
premises of negotiated management. Protesters are more likely to listen to
their own leaders, as opposed to listening to US forces. Protest organizers are
likely to buy into a cooperative effort and agree to ground rules set during
preprotest negotiations. Many protest leaders seek to stay on the right side of
the law.
ACCEPTABILITY
18 April 2005
2-35. Deployed US forces will find themselves engaged in crowd control
operations under difficult circumstances. The host nation (HN) may have
groups that do not accept the presence of US forces, which will make imposing
order and the protection of citizens difficult at best. US forces will be under
intense media and political scrutiny (an environment much like what LEAs
operate in on a day-to-day basis).
2-36. Winning in this environment is not like winning in combat. US forces
may appear to be invincible and formidable, but they risk being portrayed as
oppressors. Thus, US forces can lose by appearing to win. Groups that
perceive themselves as oppressed will readily seek victimhood in an effort to
gain the support of public opinion. Winning in this environment is about
seizing and holding the moral high ground. US forces must maintain the
authority and legitimacy of what they are doing.
2-37. Projecting a favorable image will require outreach to local leaders and
citizens. It will also require developing a relationship with the media. For
example, the Los Angeles Sheriffs Department often invites the media to
accompany their tactical commander during crowd control situations. This
shows that they have nothing to hide. It also provides an opportunity for
individuals to see the commander’s side of an event.
2-38. In this environment, commanders must consider how actions will play
among several audiences—local, allied, US, and international. The media
effect is inescapable. In some cases, it will be difficult to accommodate all of
FM 3-19.15 2-7
Control Force Operations
these audiences. However, the most important audience will be the US public,
which is key to the continued support of US forces.
CROWD ASSESSMENT QUESTIONS
2-8
2-39. Assessing crowds requires its own set of questions. These questions
should be answered before a crowd assembles or as quickly as possible if a
gathering occurs without notification. In some cases, all the questions may not
be answered. These questions represent a logical way to think about crowds.
The questions are as follows:
Who are they? What is the overarching identity of the crowd?
Are they strikers, ethnic factions, or social protesters? Do they
identify themselves as strikers, ethnic groups, religious
factions, or protesters against some perceived social injustice?
Understanding who they are will indicate what they may do. It may be
possible to determine identities and goals from advance assembling
instructions, leaflets distributed to bystanders, placards and banners,
and chants and songs.
What are their goals? What the group wants to accomplish by
assembling could determine the extent to which they can be
accommodated once they have assembled. They may only seek
recognition for their cause (being seen and heard). If so, this goal is
usually easy to accommodate. However, some groups may have more
demanding goals, for example the demonstrators in Seattle who
sought to stop the WTO. Goals that cannot be accommodated make
confrontation very likely.
What is the composition of the crowd and are there any known
factions? Seattle demonstrations against the WTO were comprised of
groups that were protesting environmental issues, wages, and child
labor laws. Differing goals and the resulting friction were evident
between such organizations as the Ruckus Society and the American
Federation of Labor-Congress of Industrial Organizations (AFL-CIO).
Factions within a crowd represent threats and opportunities.
What are they capable of doing? Protest groups often claim that
they will assemble large numbers of people to produce some disruptive
action. However, there is often a difference between the claim and
reality. An organization may claim that it can mass a 100,000 people,
but in reality can only get 40,000. Organizers exaggerate for the
following reasons: they want to boost the morale of their own people
and they want the media to report that they have strength in
numbers. Studying the past activities of a group may provide
indications of what they are capable of doing in the future.
What are their traditional behaviors or cultural repertoires?
What people do during protests is not universal. It varies with the
group and the culture. Social protest organizations and striking
unions will carry placards and banners. Other groups will protest in a
more quiet way, like the 5,000 women in Sarajevo whose standard
Sunday behavior was to sit and block traffic. They were protesting the
loss of male relatives in the Bosnian war. Understanding the goals of
FM 3-19.15 18 April 2005
Control Force Operations
the protesters can be helpful in deciding how to respond to their
behaviors.
e When and where will they assemble? Every protest organizer has
a time and place for assembling and perhaps a destination for the
crowd to move toward. If the organizer attempts to mobilize large
numbers of participants, the time and place for assembling and
dispersing must be made known in the instructions. This information
may be stated in the mobilization instructions or disseminated by an
informal network, such as word of mouth. Such impromptu networks
in densely populated areas can enable rapid assembling.
e Where will they go? Many crowds have destinations. Organizations
may march a specified distance to ensure that their cause gets
sufficient attention. Commanders need to know the route to minimize
disruptions to the rest of the community. In Los Angeles, LEAs
attempt to reroute traffic and prevent congestion caused by protest
marches. It is also necessary to provide security along the route to
prevent counterdemonstrators from confronting the marchers. This
will prevent an even greater problem for the community.
e What are the possible targets of violence? Riots, in particular,
may focus on target facilities. In the 1992 Los Angeles riots, gun stores
were major targets. In developing countries, targets may be more
basic. In Somalia, throngs of people stormed food supply facilities. In
Haiti, riots broke out over trash dumps where US forces had discarded
the remnants of meals, ready to eat (MREs).
e What is the worst-case scenario? The worst-case scenario must be
recognized for the sake of avoidance. This may be when a peaceful
crowd degenerates into a violent riot.
e When and where will they disperse? Crowds have a life cycle that
includes how they disperse (see Chapter 1). Commanders must
consider this. It is essential that there be one or more avenues that
individuals can use to disperse. These dispersal routes should be
clearly marked, visible, and open-ended. There may be a need for US
forces to assist the crowd with dispersal. For example, in Los Angeles
a 70,000-man march went from east to central Los Angeles. Once at
their destination, they engaged in peaceful activities and then
dispersed. The LEAs provided transportation back to the assembly
area (AA); otherwise, the protesters would have returned to the AA in
a disorganized and unsupervised manner.
e Are there plans for subsequent gatherings? A crowd may
disperse for a short time so participants can take care of personal
needs. This could be days or only a few hours.
LEGAL CONSIDERATIONS
2-40. The legal authority in which a peace operation is conducted defines the
parameters of the operation. All commanders, leaders, and soldiers must
know the legal authority that regulates their operations.
18 April 2005 FM 3-19.15 2-9
Control Force Operations
MANDATES
2-41. There are two types of mandates—United Nations (UN) and non-UN.
Mandates are the authority under which an operation is conducted. UN
mandates are created from resolutions by the UN Security Council (UNSC) or
the UN General Assembly (UNGA) that authorize and define an operation.
Non-UN mandates are created from treaties, accords, resolutions, or
agreements evolving from other international or regional organizations.
STATUS OF FORCES AGREEMENT AND STATUS OF MISSION AGREEMENT
2-42. A status of forces agreement (SOFA) and a status of mission agreement
(SOMA) are key documents that define the legal authority and responsibilities
of a force and force personnel participating in an operation. ASOFA or SOMA
may be a treaty or memorandum of understanding. It is an agreement
negotiated between the UN and the host countries, which details the rights,
privileges, immunities, and nature of services to be provided to the force and
its personnel and their responsibilities and obligations.
INTERNATIONAL LAW
2-43. Legally, international law affects most stability operations and support
operations (SOSO). These laws consist mainly of international agreements,
treaties, and customary international law, which include the agreements and
laws known as the law of war. International agreements prescribe the rights,
duties, powers, and privileges of nations relative to particular undertakings.
International agreements will affect US participation in SOSO in the—
e Right of US forces to enter a foreign country.
e Status of US forces while in the foreign country.
e Construction and operation of US bases of operations.
e Aircraft overflights and landing rights.
e Processing of claims for any damage to persons and property of the
foreign country.
2-44. These agreements or customary international laws govern all aspects of
operations carried out. In the absence of a viable HN government or proper
international agreement, many aspects of the operations are controlled by
domestic (US) or customary international law.
UNITED STATES LAW
2-10
2-45. Operations in peace and conflict must comply with US law, whether as a
statute, executive order, regulation, or other directive from a branch or agency
of the federal government. The Uniform Code of Military Justice (UCMJ)
applies to questions of military justice. Various statutes, Executive Order
12888; Section 8, Code of Federal Regulations (CFR); and DOD and service
regulations govern all intelligence-gathering activities. The staff judge
advocate (SJA) must actively advise and participate in all activities from
initial planning to redeployment.
FM 3-19.15 18 April 2005
Control Force Operations
HOST NATION LAW
2-46. If a viable HN government exists, whether at the national or the local
level, all laws of the HN will apply to US forces in that country unless an
international agreement provides otherwise. The types of laws that may
inhibit US operations are in the fields of immigration, labor, currency
exchange, the procurement of goods and services, customs and taxes, and
criminal and civil liabilities. A SOFA usually covers these areas before an
operation begins. Therefore, planners must understand the law to assess it
and determine if it will adversely affect the operation. Assistance may be
available from the local US embassy or the command judge advocate; if not,
the command may have to rely on other sources for guidance. If local law
hinders the operation, the commander must inform the US embassy and
request that it negotiate a solution.
CIVIL AUTHORITIES
2-47. There will be times that US forces will deploy to nations where the
infrastructure of civil authorities has survived the conflict and is functional.
Local authorities and police are responsible for ensuring the safety of their
citizens, including the UN High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR). US
forces assist in this by providing general military security and by facilitating
negotiations. In countries where the civil authority infrastructure has
collapsed, the UN mandate may require the coalition of forces to help ensure
the safety of citizens until their own civil authorities can be rebuilt.
RULES OF ENGAGEMENT
18 April 2005
2-48. The rules of engagement (ROE) are the commander’s rules for the use of
force (RUF). Commanders are responsible for interpreting, drafting,
disseminating, and training on the ROE. Ensure that the SJA assists
throughout the ROE development process. This will ensure that the ROE will
not improperly constrain actions, but are still consistent with domestic and
international law and policies and orders of the chain of command.
2-49. Clearly stated ROE are published before Army forces are committed.
The highest military authority, with input from subordinate commanders, will
continually evaluate the ROE and modify them as appropriate. When the use
of NLW has been authorized in the ROE, the decision to use NLW should be
delegated to the lowest possible level, preferably the platoon or squad level.
This requires that all personnel, not just leaders, have a clear understanding
of the ROE and the commander’s intent (see FM 3-22.40).
2-50. In peace operations, the use of force is restrained while the diplomatic
solution is sought through negotiation or mediation. Accordingly, ROE are
more restrictive in peace operations, making them more politically sensitive.
In today’s world, peace operations are usually conducted by a coalition of
forces operating under the purview of the UN charter and customary
international law. Therefore, the UN may mandate certain restraints. Using
overwhelming force could compromise diplomatic efforts to reach a peaceful
settlement. Even a single, relatively small engagement could jeopardize the
legitimacy of the peacekeeping force and upset negotiations or mediations.
Commanders must beware that in any confrontation ROE decisions made by
FM 3-19.15 2-11
Control Force Operations
soldiers can have strategic political implications on current and future
operations. Therefore, it is vital that leaders and soldiers hold a common
understanding of when, how, and to what degree force is to be used. This
requires training.
MULTINATIONAL OPERATIONS
2-51. Multinational operations include military forces from different nations.
These operations are usually interagency operations. Conducting operations
with foreign military partners, like operations with civilian partners, is
uncommon to many soldiers, so a clear understanding of this different
environment is necessary.
2-52. The majority of US peace operations will be part of a UN peace
operation. Their multinational character merits particular attention because
national interests and organizational influence may compete with doctrine
and efficiency. Commanders can expect contributing nations to adhere to
national policies and priorities, which at times complicate the multinational
effort.
2-53. When working within a multinational force and with allies, do the
following:
e Train coalition partners and allies on tactics and techniques.
e Remember that teamwork and trust are essential.
e Achieve unity of effort.
e Consider equipment and communications capability and interface.
e Strive to eliminate sources of confusion and misunderstanding.
e Remember that military doctrine varies from country to country.
e Remember that national culture influences the way units operate.
e Remember that language barriers represent a significant challenge.
SCALABLE EFFECTS
2-54. Scalable effects concepts are a measured approach in response to a
crowd gathering. By recognizing a use-of-force policy, soldiers must be taught
and understand that they use the minimum force necessary. Without the
appearance of a graduated response, the gathering crowd may consider
actions as excessive, causing a possible escalation of hostilities or violence. Do
the following to aid in the scalable effects process:
e Try to persuade the crowd to quietly disperse by talking with leaders.
e Use translators as necessary.
e Let the first approach be by local authorities (the mayor or police).
e Pass out handbills requesting that the crowd return home.
e Use video and still cameras to photograph individuals and events for
later use at trials.
e Give warnings before moving to the next level of force.
2-55. Ideally, the force should be positioned out of sight of the crowd. Have
the troops move into position with few shouted commands. For maximum
2-12 FM 3-19.15 18 April 2005
Control Force Operations
effect on the crowd, have them form their formation decisively and
professionally. Do the following to aid in the formation process:
e Display force in a graduated manner (for example, a UH 60, hardened
vehicles, and soldiers with charged weapons).
e Exploit the psychological effects of show of force.
e Demonstrate force (do not use on unarmed civilians).
e Escalate the PSYOP message.
e Highlight the target pointer.
e Demonstrate sniper precision strike capability.
e Employ riot control measures.
e Use NL munitions.
e Use RCAs (if approved).
e Move through the crowd using riot control formations and movement
techniques.
e Use the graduated response matrix (GRM)
2-56. With the increased participation of US forces in contingency operations
around the world, it accentuates the need to establish procedures for applying
graduated military responses to situations that threaten these missions.
Numerous GRMs and similar products exist throughout the military. These
products graphically portray available responses in a graduated manner. The
intent of these products is to give the on-scene commanders a list of options
with which to control or defuse a situation before it gets out of hand. Most
threats can be eliminated without loss of life or collateral damage by
effectively applying the resources available.
PLAN A GRADUATED RESPONSE MATRIX
2-57. The planning for and development of a GRM begins with the mission
analysis portion of the military decision-making process (MDMP). Some
missions require US forces to enforce treaties or accords to protect the lives of
civilians in uncertain or hostile environments (such as noncombatant
evacuation operations [NEO]) or to provide large-scale humanitarian
assistance. These missions require some sort of graduated response criteria to
maintain order and prevent uncertain environments from becoming hostile.
The development of a GRM requires the following seven steps:
e Identify the need for a GRM.
e Establish a team to develop the GRM.
e Develop targets.
e Coordinate staff functions.
e War-game.
e Receive command approval.
e Operate deliberately.
Identify the Need for a Graduated Response Matrix
2-58. Not all missions require a GRM. The decision to use a GRM requires
careful consideration. Once it is agreed that a GRM is necessary, it requires
guidance from the commander regarding the response options available.
18 April 2005 FM 3-19.15 2-13
Control Force Operations
Determining the appropriate responses is based on the facts, assumptions,
and limitations identified during mission analysis.
2-59. Planners (staff) must agree on the intent of the GRM. The GRM can be
used as a training and rehearsal tool. It provides leaders with the most likely
vignettes that can be incorporated into a COA analysis, predeployment
training, and rehearsals. The GRM can also be used as a handy reference
during situations that require graduated responses.
Establish a Team to Develop the Graduated Response Matrix
Develop Targets
2-14
2-60. Establish a GRM development team with a broad range of skills,
knowledge, and professionalism. The following list of individuals makes up a
typical GRM team:
e Provost marshal or senior military police advisor.
e FSE.
e Brigade legal officer.
e PSYOP representative.
e Land information warfare or information operations officer.
2-61. Since the GRM is designed to give commanders graduated options for
dealing with both hostile and nonhostile threats to the mission, this team
composition allows for target selection, application of the ROE, and attack
methods using both NL and lethal means.
2-62. The FSE, in conjunction with the S2 section, develops targets for both
lethal and NL attacks. In the case of stability operations, these targets are
usually not the conventional specific point or piece of equipment on the
ground. They are more situational than specific. The GRM identifies
situations or acts that subordinate elements could face during the mission.
The sample GRM in Figure 2-1 shows three possible situations or acts that on-
scene commanders could expect to encounter. From the targeting standpoint,
these are groups of more specific targets.
2-63. During mission analysis, the fire support officer (FSO) identifies both
lethal and NL assets available to the unit. A tactical PSYOP team (TPT)
attached to the unit is an example of a NL attack asset that should not be
overlooked. The following are examples of what the FSO should look for:
a RCAs.
= TPTs.
a Electronic warfare assets.
a CA teams.
a Information operations (IO) teams.
a Artillery smoke projectiles.
a Aircraft (AH-64s, OH-58Ds, and AC-1380s).
a Mortars.
2-64. The lethal assets described could be used in a NL show of force or
demonstration to defuse a situation before it requires lethal force. The critical
element of this mission analysis is not to focus solely on lethal assets. In
FM 3-19.15 18 April 2005
Control Force Operations
Nonlethal Response
Unarmed
Civilians
Armed
Civilians
(knives,
clubs)
Armed
Crowds/
Military
(firearms)
Command
Presence/PSYOP
- Ensure that the
on-site commander
of the TPT directs
the broadcast of
the dispersal
proclamation and/
or passes
handbills.
- Escalate the tone
of the dispersal
proclamation from
information to a
warning of force.
Show of Force
- Display force along with
escalating the dispersal
proclamation.
- Display force ina
graduated manner, such
as a helicopter hovering
over a crowd or soldiers
with charged weapons.
- Exploit the psychological
effect of a show of force.
Demonstration of Force
- Do not demonstrate force
toward unarmed civilians.
- Display force along with
escalating the dispersal
proclamation.
- Highlight the target pointer.
- Demonstrate sniper precision
strike capabilities.
Riot Control Means
(if approved)
- Employ RCAs at the
point of penetration.
- Use PSYOP to
exploit the
psychological effect.
- Move through the
crowd using riot
control formations and
movement techniques.
- Do not use RCAs—
they may escalate
the situation.
Crowd
Action
Unarmed
Civilians
Armed
Civilians
(knives,
clubs)
Armed
Civilians/
Military
(firearms)
18 April 2005
Sniper Response
- Ensure that target
leaders or
troublemakers are
targeted.
- Use the minimum
response
necessary.
- Exploit the
psychological
effect of an attack.
- Consider demonstrating
capabilities.
- Exploit the psychological
effect of a lethal
response.
- Escalate gradually,
starting with a small
caliber, single round and
work up to a large caliber,
automatic.
Aerial Fires
- Determine that small arms
direct fire is ineffective.
- Use the minimum response
necessary.
- Use a minimal precision strike
initially; use subsequent fires
based on the situation.
- Exploit the psychological
impact of each strike.
Indirect Fires
- Determine that air
assets are unavailable
or ineffective.
- Use the minimum
response necessary.
- Ensure that the
response is directed
by the on-site
commander.
- CAS/indirect fires must be authorized by the
MACOM commander.
- Consider requesting permission for use when—
All lesser means have been ineffective.
There are physical eyes on target.
Proximity to civilians has been considered.
Risk to friendly forces/evacuees outweighs the
risk of collateral damage.
Figure 2-1. Sample GRM Card
FM 3-19.15
2-15
Control Force Operations
stability operations, the Army wants to prevent acts of hostility first and then
be prepared, if necessary, to apply lethal force.
2-65. Graduated responses can range from command presence through the
show of force, a demonstration, the use of RCAs, and other techniques (such as
the application of lethal force using snipers, small arms, AC-130s, and indirect
fires).
Coordinate Staff Functions
War-Game
2-66. To coordinate staff functions the rest of the GRM team assembles to
complete the escalation sequence for each response. PYSOP and legal
representatives are critical attendees during the escalation sequencing
process. In the area of psychological operations, the TPT must exploit the
effects of all responses.
2-67. The legal officer evaluates each escalation of force option and graduated
response to ensure that it is consistent with the ROE. The GRM is designed to
recommend applications of force consistent with the ROE, yet not limit the
leader or individual soldier’s right of self-defense. A GRM should clearly show
that if a hostile act occurs, lethal options would be first and foremost.
2-68. In the case of lethal responses, the commander’s guidance must again
be applied. For example, lethal responses are allowed only in self-defense.
2-69. Once the types of escalations for each potential graduated response are
determined and annotated, the GRM must then be war-gamed. The staff must
walk through each act or situation from the on-scene commander’s standpoint.
Receive Command Approval
2-70. Once the GRM has been war-gamed, it must be submitted to the
commander for approval. This is the final check to ensure that the GRM team
has applied the commander’s guidance correctly and met his intent.
Operate Deliberately
2-16
2-71. Operating deliberately affords commanders ample opportunity to plan
and prepare for possible civil disorder situations. Through the effective
gathering of information and a working cooperation with local government
and police officials, commanders can often be made aware of dates, times,
locations, and what groups may assemble before the operation. The purpose is
to gather as much information as possible who is involved, where they are
assembling, what incident promoted the activity, and what seems to be the
prevailing attitude of the assembling crowd.
2-72. Civil disturbance operations are dynamic, ever-changing environments
requiring effective communications both up and down the chains of command.
They require advance preparation and planning using the established
troop-leading procedures (TLP) outlined in FM 3-19.4. The eight-step process
of TLP aids commanders and their subordinate leaders in planning and
preparing for an operation. Most steps can be accomplished concurrently, but
rarely is there enough time to go through each step in detail. Despite this,
FM 3-19.15 18 April 2005
Control Force Operations
leaders must follow these steps to ensure that nothing is left out of the
planning process. As outlined in FM 3-19.4, the following are the eight steps of
TLP:
e Receive and analyze the mission.
e Issue a warning order.
e Make a tentative plan.
e Initiate movement.
e Conduct a reconnaissance.
e Complete the plan.
e Issue the order.
e Supervise, refine, and rehearse.
CONDUCT HASTY OPERATIONS
2-73. Conducting hasty operations seems to be the norm rather than the
exception. Unlike deliberate operations, hasty civil disorder operations are
reactionary in nature with little or no time for planning. In these situations,
the event of a crowd gathering is already underway. There is very little, if any,
advanced warning of the unfolding situation, and commanders are usually put
in the position of sending their soldiers into an already volatile, and perhaps
hostile, environment.
2-74. Commanders should be in immediate and constant communication with
local civil and police authorities. The purpose is to gather as much information
as possible about who is involved, where they are assembling, what incident
promoted the activity, and what seems to be the prevailing attitude of the
assembling crowd.
2-75. It is essential that commanders operating in environments where civil
disturbance operations are likely ensure that their soldiers receive training at
all levels. Commanders and subordinate leaders need to instinctively rely on
the same TLP that they would in a deliberate operation. See FM 3-19.4.
CONDUCT TACTICAL OPTIONS
Monitoring
18 April 2005
2-76. In the peacekeeping and peace enforcement environment, the use of
conventional firearms or the threat of their use may not be the solution to a
situation where US forces must separate two belligerent, hostile ethnic groups
or prevent a similar group from entering an area that is off limits to them.
2-77. Crowd control options are often combined. Commanders choose their
options based on an evaluation of the particular crowd. Commanders select
any combination of control techniques and force options they think will
influence the particular situation (METT-TC). Commanders must always try
to choose the response that can be expected to reduce the intensity of the
situation.
2-78. Monitoring an assembled crowd consists of gathering necessary
intelligence and watching them to determine progress and development. It is
this gathered information that helps commanders select the appropriate
FM 3-19.15 2-17
Control Force Operations
2-18
actions. Gathered information can often be used to help defuse a situation
through persuasion.
2-79. Monitoring is continuous. Without timely information, responses could
cause the situation to escalate beyond what it should have or cause a response
to be inadequate based on the situation.
2-80. Commanders may task teams with specific missions to monitor crowd
activity and note any new developments. Monitoring done by these
observation teams gives the commander up-to-the-minute information so he
can gauge crowd activity and intent in relation to the overall situation.
2-81. Observation teams monitor crowd activities to gather information. They
observe and report on crowd size, location, and mood and on the developing
situation. An observation team may consist of a marksman, a radio operator,
and an observer equipped with binoculars. They may be posted strategically
on rooftops and other high terrain that overlooks the crowd. Sometimes
observers use helicopter-mounted observation devices. This also affords
security for the operational forces. Commanders must know where their
observation teams are located so they are not mistaken for teams of snipers.
2-82. The timely flow of information may allow the commander to influence
the outcome of the situation with simple negotiations. Monitoring is
appropriate when more decisive action is not feasible because of crowd size or
when the intensity of a situation might escalate. It is particularly useful in
large, nonviolent demonstrations. Monitoring can serve as an interim
measure until more control forces arrive. It includes establishing
communication with crowd leaders to convey official interest and intent to the
crowd. Monitoring also includes efforts to gain the cooperation of crowd
leaders.
2-83. Communication with crowd leaders and participants can help a
commander control a situation without more severe measures. If
communications exist with crowd leaders, the authorities may be able to
divert the leaders or the crowd from their stated or apparent goal. Pressure
can be put on leaders to channel the crowd into an area that minimizes
disruption to the community and aids crowd control operations. March routes
and demonstration areas can be limited to those that will help contain the
crowd and reduce their potential for disrupting the community. Pressure can
be positive (offering concessions) or negative (with deterrents).
2-84. If the commander can gain the cooperation of crowd leaders, it can
decrease the potential for disorder, and if crowd leaders seek cooperation from
authorities, officials should try to be accommodating. Crowd leaders can be
placed in liaison positions between the crowd and the control force. Crowd
leaders can be made responsible for managing the crowd by policing their own
activities.
2-85. Taking still pictures or videotaping the faces of individuals within a
crowd may prevent or reduce unlawful and violent acts. This could lessen
their sense of anonymity. If needed, photographs or videotapes can be used as
evidence for prosecution. To be effective, crowd members must see their
FM 3-19.15 18 April 2005
Blocking
Dispersing
18 April 2005
Control Force Operations
presence being recorded. The photographer or cameraman should be in
uniform to let the crowd know who he or she is. Recorders must be close
enough to the crowd to be seen easily, but not close enough to be endangered.
2-86. It is not uncommon for protests and demonstrations against the US or
its forces to occur outside the main entrances to military installations or US
Embassies. Because of the sensitive nature of equipment and information that
can be found at these locations, blocking unauthorized entry is critical.
2-87. Blocking is the physical denial of advance upon a facility or an area by a
crowd. Commanders may have to task their forces to block a crowd. Blocking
physically denies crowd advance. Crowd control formations, particularly line
formations, along with barricades can be used to block advancing crowds.
Barricades of vehicles, concertina wire, and water-filled barrels are used to
block or channel the movement of the crowd.
2-88. Dispersing is taking deliberate actions to fragment an assembled crowd
in order to prevent the destruction of property or prevent injury. It is
extremely effective against smaller crowds in congested urban environments.
However, this may increase and spread lawless activity rather than reduce it.
Thus, the commander’s forces must control dispersal routes and the areas in
which the dispersal will occur. Forces must protect the facilities that could be
considered likely targets of opportunity for dispersing individuals or groups.
Dispersal of the crowd may require apprehension of small groups still active
in the area. Proclamations, shows of force, crowd control formations, and
RCAs can disperse crowds.
2-89. Avoid (if possible) the dispersion of crowds into wide-open areas because
it gives the crowd the opportunity to grow rapidly in size. The direction of
crowd movement is difficult to anticipate and channel.
2-90. Once the crowd has started to disperse, it may occasionally be necessary
for the forces to advance, keeping the crowd on the move and in the right
direction. A crowd on the move should not be hurried to avoid panic. At no
time should the crowd be cornered in a position where there is the perception
of no escape. This invokes the “fight-or-flight” syndrome, possibly escalating
violent activity.
2-91. Issuing a proclamation (see Figure 2-2, page 2-20) can help disperse a
crowd. Proclamations officially establish the illegal nature of crowd actions
and put the populace on notice that the situation demands special measures.
Proclamations prepare the people for the presence of military authority and it
tends to inspire respect. Proclamations support law-abiding elements and
psychologically bolster military forces trying to restore order. They also
demonstrate the gravity of the situation to all concerned and are excellent
ways to make a commander's intentions known to a crowd. It is also a good
way to reduce crowd size before direct action is taken. Commanders can make
FM 3-19.15 2-19
Control Force Operations
a verbal proclamation similar to the following statement: “In the name of the
President of the United States, I command that you disperse and retire
peaceably to your homes.” Such a proclamation may even make direct action
unnecessary.
I. DISPERSAL
Unlawful Gathering
“Attention! Attention! This area must be cleared at once! Further unlawful behavior will not be
tolerated. Clear this area at once or the necessary force to do so will be used.”*
Demonstration
“Disperse and retire peaceably! Disperse and retire peaceably! Attention all demonstrators!”
“The demonstration in which you are participating ends at . The permit that was agreed to
by the leaders of the demonstration expires at that time. All demonstrators must depart from the
by . All persons who wish to leave voluntarily may board the buses. These buses
will go to the . Those who wish to take buses should move to . Those
demonstrators who do not leave voluntarily by will be arrested and taken to a federal
detention center. All demonstrators are urged to abide by the permit.”*
Warning of Looting
and will be maintained. Disperse ez bly and leave this area. To avoid possible injury, leave at
“Attention! Attention! Troops are i) n nis area. They are preparing to advance. Order must
once.”
“Disperse now and avoid possible injury! Disperse now and avoid possible injury!”*
(Repeat until troops are committed.)
When Troops Are Committed
“Troops are advancing now. They will not stop until this crowd is dispersed and order is restored.
To avoid injuries, leave the area at once. Return to your homes as peaceful citizens. Troops have
their orders, and they will not stop until the crowd is dispersed. Do not get hurt. Leave this area.”*
Ill. PRESENCE OF CHILDREN
(Used in conjunction with other announcements.)
“Attention! Attention! Do not attempt to cause further disorder. Disperse now in an orderly manner
and avoid possible injury to children. Return at once to your homes.”*
IV. ADDITIONAL INSTRUCTIONS
*Indicate the method, streets, and direction that the crowd should use when dispersing.
Figure 2-2. Sample Proclamation
2-20 FM 3-19.15 18 April 2005
Containing
18 April 2005
Control Force Operations
2-92. In making a proclamation, a commander may consider imposing a time
limit. However, the situation may change, and not imposing a time limit
leaves the commander free to choose other actions when he wants. A
proclamation must be specific in its instruction.
2-93. If a time limit is stated, it must be a reasonable length of time for the
crowd to comply with the instructions. When drafting a proclamation, the
commander must consult closely with the SJA. He must use the simplest
language possible to maximize the effects of the proclamation. If
proclamations must be translated to a local language, the translation must be
made with great care.
2-94. The commander at the scene may direct that a proclamation be issued
over public address (PA) systems. The force of the words used in the
proclamation must be gauged to the composition of the crowd. If the crowd
consists of normally law-abiding citizens who are presently assembled to show
disagreement with an existing situation, the proclamation requires less force.
On the other hand, if the crowd consists of militant rioters, the proclamation
requires more force. The text may take a number of forms, depending on the
situation.
2-95. A show of force is often a useful measure for dispersing a crowd. When
troops arrive, the psychological impact of their arrival can be used. Soldiers
can dismount from the helicopters, buses, or trucks in plain sight of the crowd,
but they must be far enough away to prevent a provoked attack of thrown
objects. The first echelon to dismount from the vehicle secures the
surrounding area.
2-96. When small groups are scattered throughout a large disturbance area, a
show of force can be made by marching troops conducting motor marches,
conducting saturation patrolling, and setting up static posts. Sometimes
marching well-equipped, highly-disciplined soldiers in view of a crowd may be
all that is needed to convince them to disperse and retire peaceably. On the
other hand, a show of force may attract people to an event. It may also
provoke a nonviolent crowd into a violent confrontation. Intelligence can help
best in preparing a show-of-force response.
2-97. Containment is the process of limiting a crowd to the area they are
presently occupying. It is a suitable option when the crowd must be prevented
from spreading to surrounding areas and communities. Additionally, it
prevents those outside the already assembled crowd from joining the
gathering. Containment is useful when apprehensions become necessary for
preventing those in the crowd from escaping. Crowd control formations,
perimeter patrols, and barriers are effective methods to accomplish
containment. In all instances, caution must be used to avoid the
“fight-or-flight” syndrome common to people feeling trapped with no escape.
2-98. Armored vehicles, armored security vehicles (ASVs), and up-armored
high-mobility multipurpose wheeled vehicles (HMMWV s) are adaptable to
roadblock operations as they can serve as barriers. They also provide added
protection for the soldiers inside and those outside manning the roadblocks
because they provide an easily accessible barrier for them to crouch behind.
FM 3-19.15 2-21
Control Force Operations
2-99. Military vehicles traveling at close intervals in a column formation next
to a crowd are largely a psychological barrier (see Chapter 6). They can be
used to contain a large, fast-moving crowd. The moving cordon creates a
temporary obstacle between the crowd and the line beyond which they will not
be allowed to cross. A well-trained driver in a mobile cordon can do a better job
than dismounted soldiers. In order to execute safe, quick reversals of direction
for mobile cordons on narrow roads, the soldiers executing this formation
must be highly-trained vehicle operators.
2-100. By-the-number commands issued over vehicle radios are the most
common method for coordinating a cordon movement. Vehicles equipped with
PA systems can also prove effective to issue both commands to troops and
directives to the crowd. The cordon speed is no more than 5 miles per hour
with an interval of at least 20 feet. Blue and red lights, sirens, blinkers, and
horns may or may not be used. Armored vehicles can also serve as mobile
command posts. When used properly, vehicles provide security,
communications, and mobility.
DECIDE TO CONTAIN OR DISPERSE
USE PATROLS
2-22
2-101. Current crowd control doctrine places emphasis on crowd dispersal.
Forced dispersal may result in a crowd breaking up into multiple groups that
scatter over a large area. This may pose even greater public order problems
and may pose a continued threat to control forces. A crowd is often better
controlled by means of containment (confining its activities to a given area). A
crowd has a limited duration, and its numbers are likely to diminish as
individual needs take precedence over those of the crowd.
2-102. During the G8 summit protest in Ottawa, Canada, in June 2002,
several thousand people showed up to demonstrate against the evils of world
corporate leaders. Canadian Police determined that their best response to this
event was a “soft response.” Throughout the two-day event, hundreds of
officers in standard patrol uniforms operated in four-officer teams, prestaged
throughout the city. As the demonstrators began to assemble and eventually
took to marching, officers provided escorts both in the front and rear of the
enormous crowd along with officers marching to the flanks of the
demonstration. This “soft approach” frustrated demonstrators, especially
those who had it within their agenda to cause property damage and personal
injury. Even more frustrating to the demonstrators was the heavy downpour
of rain they endured on both days. Their organizations quickly disbanded out
of concern for their own creature comforts. In the end, 10,000 people
participated in the protest, with only three arrests made in two days.
2-103. Alert, aggressive patrolling of the disturbance area deters the
gathering of crowds. The use of saturation patrolling is most effective for this
purpose. It allows information to be collected, and it creates the psychological
impression of the control force being everywhere at once.
2-104. Standard military transport vehicles provide mobility and
communications for area coverage. Soldiers must be deployed with enough
vehicles to provide the flexibility to handle all situations in the disturbance
FM 3-19.15 18 April 2005
Control Force Operations
area. The vehicles can be modified with sandbags, wire screens, or similar
materials to protect against sniper fire and thrown objects. If sniper fire is
expected or has been encountered, then up-armored HMMWYVs or light
armored vehicles should be used for patrolling.
2-105. Armored vehicles patrolling an area of violence provide an added
psychological effect and allow troops to maneuver close to snipers to make an
apprehension. They may also be used as rescue vehicles to extract hostages or
people surrounded by a hostile crowd.
2-106. Varying patrol routes and times for mounted and dismounted patrols
keep lawbreakers from being able to pick a safe place or time to act. Patrols
are particularly useful in preventing overt arson and violence. Patrol
members can also spot and promptly report fires. Whenever possible, military
patrols are integrated with civil police patrols. Joint patrols conserve military
forces and aid civilian military communications. They also help troops become
familiar with an area quickly. In addition, the civil police are available to
make apprehensions, if needed. Patrol members must practice proper
standards of conduct and fair treatment of civilians at all times. They are
performing an important community relation and control function.
2-107. Motorized patrols, because of their speed and mobility, provide timely
reconnaissance and broad area coverage. Motorized patrols are in radio
contact with TF headquarters (HQ). They can make periodic contact with foot
patrols and stationary posts, while patrolling their own areas. Moreover,
motorized patrols can respond quickly to calls for help from other patrols and
guard posts. Motorized patrols should have at least three vehicles with three
men in each. Strength in numbers is necessary for protection. When planning
patrol routes, avoid areas where the patrols can be isolated or placed in
jeopardy. In addition, motorized patrols are equipped with fire extinguishers
to put out small fires, thus reducing the burden on the fire department.
2-108. Besides foot and motorized patrols, air patrols provide a third
dimension in directing the overall control effort in the disturbance area. They
can perform reconnaissance and surveillance and provide near real time
formation over the disturbance area. They are an excellent means of providing
timely information to the commander concerning the demonstration area and
its surrounding perimeter. They can monitor the actions of rioters, the extent
of damage, the status of access routes, locations and conditions of road
barriers, and other important conditions.
USE DELAYING TACTICS
18 April 2005
2-109. AOs that units are assigned to patrol are often larger than the unit has
resources to manage effectively. In addition, units must manage taskings,
contingency plans, and other commitments, which will quickly drain available
manpower. This problem will manifest itself when factions threaten to riot or
gather in large numbers to demonstrate. In order for the commander to stall
for time while he shifts unit assets, he may want to delay the arrival of buses
and vehicles full of demonstrators. This technique is based on the assumption
that demonstrators are moving to the demonstration site by vehicle. Key and
secondary routes into the demonstration site must be analyzed by the S2
when he does the IPB.
FM 3-19.15 2-23
Control Force Operations
2-24
NOTE: There should be an overwatch when this technique is
attempted.
2-110. As demonstrator buses and/or vehicles move toward the demonstration
site, soldiers in two HMMWV s block the road just ahead of the approaching
vehicles. Once the demonstrators dismount their vehicles and begin to close in
on the soldiers, the soldiers leapfrog (see Figure 2-3) 1 kilometer farther down
the road to repeat the process again. This is repeated as often as necessary.
This process, if repeated enough times, should discourage the demonstrators
enough that they give up and go home. It should also provide enough time to
shift assets to the demonstration site.
2-111. Demonstrators are just as capable of blocking secondary and key
routes leading into a demonstration or riot site to prevent relief forces from
assisting with riot control as US forces are capable of preventing
demonstrators access to the site. One must remember that demonstrators are
often well organized and have handheld radios and other items. A great
example of this was the 1999 demonstration against the WTO in Seattle,
Washington. Police had erected temporary portable fences in the downtown
areas to keep demonstrators from disrupting the delegates. Determined to be
disruptive, the demonstrators relocated the temporary fences by not allowing
police to enter the area. Police were forced to back patrol cars over their own
fences to gain access.
HMMWVs Bus loads of
move a short Demonstrators
distance down Demonstrators
Figure 2-3. Delaying Tactics
FM 3-19.15 18 April 2005
Chapter 3
Apprehension, Search, and Detention
During the course of a civil disturbance, some members of the crowd may
take part in unlawful activities, such as looting and assault. This will
require the civil authorities or attached elements to apprehend, search,
and detain people who are participating in the demonstration.
Circumstances of the unfolding situation may require US military forces to
be called upon to search, take custody of, and detain people who are
participating in some form of protest and violating the law. Search,
apprehension, and detention operations are conducted to halt these
violations and to deter future violations.
LEGAL CONSIDERATIONS
18 April 2005
3-1. All apprehensions are made by the civil police force, unless it is not
possible for them to do so. Individuals must be known to have committed an
illegal act, or there must be probable cause to believe that an individual
committed such an act to be apprehended. If it becomes necessary for a
military control force to apprehend or temporarily detain such violators,
control force members often do so with the approval of the civil authorities.
This ensures that all searches, apprehensions, and detentions (if necessary)
are conducted within the parameters of the law.
3-2. Commanders operating overseas, similar to Bosnia and Kosovo, may find
themselves without an established government or LEAs to work with.
Commanders on the ground are then thrust into positions of authority,
making them responsible for the actions, conduct, searches, apprehensions,
and detentions performed by their troops.
3-3. If US military forces are called upon by the local authorities, certain
policies have to be observed during search, apprehension, and detention
operations. First, treat all people firmly but with reasonable courtesy and
dignity. Remember that participating in a legal demonstration to express
views is a right of all people, not just Americans in the US. The action,
attitude, and behavior of US soldiers performing these operations are very
important.
3-4. Our forces should never be seen as a military policing force on our own
soil or as an occupying force in another country. Treating people with
contempt, hostility, or excessive force increases the likelihood of resistance
and violence. Searching people, placing them under apprehension, and
detaining them without probable and just cause or without concern for their
constitutional rights create problems and hinder due process. Numerous cases
exist where authorities violated an individual’s rights, resulting in the
prosecution of police authorities or civil suits being waged against the officers
FM 3-19.15 3-1
Apprehension, Search, and Detention
and their leaders. This includes the military personnel assisting those
officials.
3-5. It is very important that civil law enforcement (if available) be present
and supervise all activities. Military personnel conducting a search or making
an apprehension must carry out all the procedures carefully within the
parameters of their training and the authority given to them. For each search
and apprehension performed, the apprehension element must document the
specific conduct of the person that violated the law.
3-6. Apprehending officers and supporting US servicemen must provide
careful descriptive data for each subject. This description must be sufficient so
that, at a later time, the suspected person can be clearly identified as the
subject in question. Names and addresses of witnesses to the violation must
be obtained. This information can be recorded on Department of Defense (DD)
Form 2708 (Receipt for Inmate or Detained Person). Apprehension teams must
retain and tag each item of physical evidence, such as weapons or stolen
goods, that supports the apprehension on DA Form 4137 (Evidence/Property
Custody Document). The team must give the owner a receipt for all property
collected as evidence and retained.
TYPES OF SUBJECTS
3-7. There are two types of subjects (cooperative and uncooperative); they are
as follows:
e Cooperative. Cooperative subjects actively and willingly comply with
instructions. Cooperative subjects are usually compliant and offer no
resistance to verbal directions or physical actions. However, if they
provide any resistance to authority, it is usually passive. Some
examples of this resistance are as follows:
a Yelling.
=» Screaming.
a Tightening the body.
a Pulling away.
a Letting the body go limp.
e Uncooperative. Uncooperative subjects will display preattack cues.
Uncooperative subjects will actively resist being apprehended. Often,
this resistance comes in the form of physical actions, such as—
a Assaulting verbally.
a Refusing to be handcuffed.
« Refusing to be searched.
= Attempting to push away, forcing a pursuit.
a Wrestling with the apprehension team.
a Striking out at the apprehension team with fists, hands and
elbows, and feet.
a Striking out at the apprehension team with weapons, such as
knives, clubs, bats, bricks, rocks, or firearms.
FM 3-19.15 18 April 2005
Apprehension, Search, and Detention
APPREHENSION
18 April 2005
3-8. US military forces will be in a supporting role to the local civilian
authorities or acting as the control force in civil disturbance operations. When
making apprehensions, it is best to use apprehension teams. These teams
provide quick, organized responses to developing situations. Teams can be
organized at the team, squad, or platoon level depending on the number of
apprehensions expected. The intelligence information gathered helps to
prepare for events where apprehensions may be necessary.
3-9. Each team (if possible) consists of a civilian police or apprehension
officer, security element, and recorder. Team apprehension officers make the
actual apprehension with the help of the security elements. If there is not a
civilian police officer available to act as the apprehension officer, then it may
be an officer or noncommissioned officer (NCO).
3-10. Ensuring that the apprehension process is properly conducted and
documented, determine who is to be apprehended. Then inform the subject of
why he is under apprehension and supervise his handling.
3-11. Security elements help the apprehension officer handle subjects.
Security elements move, restrain, and search subjects under the supervision
of the apprehension officer. The primary responsibility of the security
elements is to watch the crowd and act as a blocking force, keeping the crowd
from interfering with the apprehension. Recorders document the event,
preferably by video, and complete DD Form 2708. If possible, recorders also
photograph the apprehension officer with each subject. This aids in the
identification process because it links the apprehension officer to the subject
and provides the apprehension officer with documentation of the
apprehension for use in court.
3-12. Electronically capturing the events as they unfold is essential in all civil
disturbance operations. If personnel and equipment are available, videotape
the events as they happen or, at a minimum, take still photographs to provide
pictorial documentation that may be used later in court. Recording the scene
before, during, and after the apprehension provides necessary evidence and
can also help eliminate additional hostile and illegal activities. Having control
force members take videos or pictures can help control crowd reaction. It
reduces the feelings of anonymity that a crowd often enjoys and makes crowd
members less prone to unruly or illegal acts.
3-13. Verbal commands given to the subject should be in a voice and manner
appropriate for the purpose and the situation. Commands should be simple,
concise, and in an understood language. Verbal commands should be
convincing and convey an expectation that the instructions will be obeyed.
With desperate, frightened people, sympathy combined with an attitude of
firm assurance on the soldier's part may avoid additional violent behavior or
trouble. An attitude of forceful authority may be needed with an
uncooperative person. Commands given by soldiers must be done in a manner
and context so that the subject has no confusion as to what the soldier is
ordering them to do.
3-14. A subject will need to be transported from the area. In CONUS
operations, civil authorities will usually be responsible for providing the
FM 3-19.15 3-3
Apprehension, Search, and Detention
FLEX-CUFS
transportation of a subject. Exceptions to this may be if the demonstration
occurs on an installation. OCONUS operations may require US forces to
provide vehicles, such as trucks, buses, or sedans, that will be used to
transport a subject. Whenever possible, vehicles used to transport a subject
should be modified with barriers to separate them from the drivers. If a
barrier cannot be provided, a guard is to be placed in the vehicle. Passenger
compartments are checked for items that could be used as weapons. When
guards are required, the guard always sits with his weapon away from the
prisoner. Prisoners must be placed where they can be best controlled, but they
are not fastened to the vehicle with hand irons or Flex-Cufs. When seat belts
are available they must be fastened. See Soldier Training Publications (STPs)
19-95C1-SM and 19-95C24-SM-TG.
3-15. Female escorts should always be used to transport a female subject. If
female escorts are not available, measures must be taken to avoid false
charges of molestation or sexual misconduct. Net control stations should be
notified of the departure and arrival times and vehicle mileage readings
(before and after). At least two male escorts must be present at all times when
a female escort is not available. These procedures also apply when the male
and female roles are reversed.
3-16. The two main positions used to place Flex-Cufs on a subject are the
standing-supported and the prone.
3-17. When using the standing-supported position, the search man—
e Escorts the subject to a wall or other sturdy vertical surface (see
Figure 3-1).
Figure 3-1. Standing-Supported Position
e Instructs the subject (verbally) to do the following:
a Turn his head away.
a Place his free arm (palm out, thumb down, and elbow locked)
against the surface of the wall.
FM 3-19.15 18 April 2005
18 April 2005
Apprehension, Search, and Detention
= Spread his feet until instructed to stop.
a Place his heels against the wall.
Uses the leg closest to the controlled arm to pin the subject’s leg
(above the knee) to the wall.
Reinforces verbal commands with pain compliance techniques if the
subject fails to follow instructions.
Maintains a double 90° hold on the controlled arm with his inside
hand. With his free hand, the search man grasps the middle portion of
the Flex-Cuf, keeping one cuff up and one cuff down.
Places the first cuff (bottom cuff) on the subject’s controlled arm,
maintaining wrist manipulation (see Figure 3-2).
Reaches through the free cuff with his outside hand and instructs the
subject to place his free hand in the center of his back. With his
outside hand, the search man takes the subject’s free hand and
completes the restraint by securing the cuff. He ensures that there is
at least one-finger distance between the cuff and the subject’s wrist
(see Figure 3-3, page 3-6).
Figure 3-2. Cuffing the First Hand From the Standing Supported Position
3-18. When using the prone position, the search man—
Grasps the Flex-Cuf with his outside hand, maintains tension on the
subject’s arm, and places the first cuff on the subject’s controlled wrist
(see Figure 8-4, page 3-6). Next, the search man secures the cuff,
keeping at least a one-finger distance between the cuff and the wrist.
Reaches through the free cuff with his outside hand and instructs the
subject to place his free hand in the center of his back (see Figure 3-5,
page 3-7).
Reinforces verbal commands with pain compliance techniques if the
subject fails to follow instructions. The search man bends the subject’s
controlled arm (using the natural break of the elbow as a hinge)
toward the hand in the middle of the subject’s back. With the outside
hand, the search man takes the subject’s free hand and completes the
restraint by securing the cuff.
FM 3-19.15 3-5
Apprehension, Search, and Detention
Figure 3-4. Cuffing the First Hand From the Prone Position
3-6 FM 3-19.15 18 April 2005
SEARCHES
18 April 2005
Apprehension, Search, and Detention
Figure 3-5. Cuffing the Second Hand From the Prone Position
3-19. Initial contact with the subject is the most dangerous time during any
apprehension; therefore, initial contact must be a swift and decisive team
effort. Do not give the subject time to think or react. Distract his attention
when possible. Apprehension teams are comprised of a search man, threat
cover man, and security man (if necessary). Their responsibilities are as
follows:
e The search man—
Issues verbal commands.
Conducts searches.
Handles radio communication.
Holsters his weapon before approaching a subject and informs the
threat cover man that he is holstering his weapon.
Performs control procedures and handcuffs the subject.
FM 3-19.15 3-7
Apprehension, Search, and Detention
a Moves the subject to a safe area.
a Removes weapons (if any) and sensitive evidence from the subject.
a Disengages after the subject is restrained.
a Controls and escorts the subject to a detention area.
e The threat cover man—
a Provides cover for the search man.
a Discourages escape and resistance.
a Discourages hostile interference.
a Alerts the search man of threats.
a Resists distractions and maintains target acquisition or scanning.
a Assesses threats constantly and prepares for the unexpected.
e The security man (if necessary)—
a Provides cover for the search man.
a Discourages hostile interference.
a Alerts the search man of threats.
a Resists distractions and maintains target acquisition or scanning.
a Assesses threats constantly and prepares for the unexpected.
Search Principles
3-20. A subject should always be put at a disadvantage and searched
immediately, but circumstances may dictate postponing the search until a
safer place can be found. At a minimum, a quick pat down can be done en
route to a safer location. The longer the apprehension takes, the greater the
risk of drawing a hostile crowd and violent acts toward the control force.
3-21. Crowds often sympathize with a subject and try to help him or escalate
the activities of the crowd toward violence. A subject's actions may also incite
the crowd to violence. The longer a subject is the focal point of an
apprehension, the easier it is to stir a crowd to hostile or violent acts.
Apprehension teams should choose to move the subject out of the crowd’s
view. For the safety of the team, always apply Flex-Cufs or handcuffs and
escort the subject to an area where a search can be done safely.
3-22. Search team members never operate alone; searches are conducted by a
minimum of two team members. Initial steps must be taken to put the subject
at a physical disadvantage. Before conducting a search (regardless of rank,
sex, position, age, or physical condition), a team member applies the handcuffs
or Flex-Cufs. Verbal commands must be short, clear, and distinct.
3-23. A search is conducted on everyone that has been apprehended to ensure
that the team and those being apprehended are safe. The search man must
abide by the following procedures when conducting a search:
e Search in a clear, secure area (when possible).
e Be ready to counter any resistance or an assault by the subject.
Consider the subject armed until proven (by search) otherwise.
e Employ the appropriate level of force immediately, based on the
actions of the subject.
FM 3-19.15 18 April 2005
18 April 2005
Apprehension, Search, and Detention
e Do not step over the subject when he is at a disadvantage on the
ground; go around him and remain out of sight.
e Do a 360° search of the subject’s waistline for weapons. Search obvious
and inconspicuous areas. Inconspicuous areas such as the groin,
armpits, chest, and small of the back must be searched on both men
and women; however, do not linger in these areas.
NOTE: Conduct same-gender searches when possible. If mixed gender
searches are necessary for speed or security, conduct them ina
respectful manner and avoid any action that could be interpreted as
sexual in nature. To prevent allegations of sexual misconduct, the
apprehension officer shows careful control of the soldiers who
perform mixed-gender searches.
e Maintain security.
e Brief subjects quickly on what to do and who to follow.
e Remember that when conducting a search, a subject’s body can be
divided for a more efficient and thorough search. For example, search
from head to toe or from side to side.
NOTE: The search man announces the items found and secures
weapons and contraband.
e Military forces (when supporting civil authorities) may perform
searches of people and property that are not usually subject to
military law during a civil disturbance.
e Remember that it is always better for civilian police to search civilians
and civilian property (when possible).
e Remember that if military forces are called upon to support police it is
usually a last resort and there are not enough civilian officers
available to accomplish the mission.
e Military personnel may search people incident to an apprehension.
3-24. The prescribed methods of searching someone are the frisk, the
standing, and the prone. The method of search used largely depends on the
situation and the mission. Searches are made not only of the subject and his
personal effects such as purses, bags, and wallets, but also of the immediate
surrounding area. This prevents the subject being searched from grabbing a
weapon or destroying evidence. It may also be necessary for military forces to
search private property, including vehicles, if there is—
e Reasonable belief that a person has committed or is committing a
violent crime and is hiding in a building or a vehicle.
e Reasonable belief that a vehicle contains weapons or instruments of
violence.
e Probable cause for searching a building or a vehicle.
e Probable cause to believe that (unless immediate action is taken)
evidence of a crime will be destroyed before a warrant can be obtained.
NOTE: Search teams should always consist of two personnel—one to
conduct the search, and the other to provide security and overwatch
for the soldier conducting the search. Before being searched, a
subject should always be restrained and put at a disadvantage by
FM 3-19.15 3-9
Apprehension, Search, and Detention
Frisk Search
3-10
securing his hands with handcuffs or Flex-Cufs. Ask the subject if
there is anything in his pockets that could hurt the searcher, such as
knives or needles.
3-25. The frisk search (also known as the stop and frisk, pat down, and terry
stop) is a search incident to a lawful stop. Subjects are not under
apprehension at this point, but if it were an apprehension situation, handcuffs
or Flex-Cufs would be applied first. Frisk searches are used when there is
reasonable belief that a subject may be armed with anything that could be
considered a safety threat.
3-26. Legal and regulatory circumstances for conducting a frisk search are
covered in the Manual for Courts-Martial (MCM). When a lawful stop is
performed, the person stopped may be frisked for weapons when that person
is reasonably believed to be armed and dangerous.
3-27. The primary purpose of a frisk search is safety. Frisk-search techniques
are to be used only on a compliant subject. Frisk searches only cover the outer
garments. Do not search the pockets of the individual unless a weapon is
suspected. A frisk search begins when the search man informs the subject of
the intent to search.
e During the preparation phase, the search man—
a ‘Tells the subject that he must perform a search for weapons for
the subject’s safety and his own.
a ‘Tells the subject to turn and face away from him and instructs the
subject to keep his hands out to his sides where they are visible.
NOTE: The cover man providing security moves around the subject
and positions himself out of reach and in front of the subject.
a Instructs the subject to spread his feet until instructed to stop
(more than shoulder width) and point his toes outward
compromising his balance (see Figure 3-6).
NOTE: Do not kick at the subject’s feet to spread them apart; it is
unnecessary and unprofessional.
a ‘Tells the subject to bring both of his hands back to the small of his
back with palms out, thumbs up, and the back of his hands
together.
a Instructs the subject not to move (see Figure 3-7).
e During the performance phase the search man—
= Approaches the subject from behind (if possible) at a 45° angle, off
center. The search man approaches with caution to ensure that his
feet are to the outside of the subject’s stance. See Figure 8-8, page
3-12.
a Stays just inside arms reach and grips the subject’s fingers with
his support hand. The search man firmly grips at least one finger
on each of the subject’s hands (both thumbs, both index fingers, or
an index and middle finger). An overhand or an underhand grip
can be used effectively.
FM 3-19.15 18 April 2005
18 April 2005
Apprehension, Search, and Detention
Figure 3-6. Approaching the Subject to Perform a Frisk Search
Figure 3-7. Giving Instructions to Subject Before Frisk Search
NOTE: The primary purpose of gripping the fingers is to control the
subject’s hands while performing the frisk search (see Figure 3-9,
page 3-12). If the subject is going to resist or become aggressive, he
will attempt to free his hands first. If the subject attempts to pull his
fingers from the search man’s grip, the search man must respond
instantly by increasing his grip. If the grip on the fingers is lost, the
search man should immediately push away from the subject and
create a safe distance. This will allow the search team to respond
with the necessary force to regain control of the situation.
FM 3-19.15 3-11
Apprehension, Search, and Detention
Figure 3-8. Performing a Frisk Search
Figure 3-9. Gripping the Subject’s Fingers During a Frisk Search
a Ensures that the subject always looks away from him.
a Places his strong hand on the outside of the subjects elbow
(similar to the handcuffed escort position).
NOTE: The search man searches one side (the front, back, or side) ata
time from head to foot.
a Divides the subject (visually) straight down his middle and does
not cross the line while conducting the search.
NOTE: The search man is just feeling or searching for possible
weapons, so an open hand should be used.
a Works at arm’s reach. It is the sense of touch not the sense of sight
that is being used. While performing the search, search men
3-12 FM 3-19.15 18 April 2005
Standing Search
18 April 2005
Apprehension, Search, and Detention
should stay behind and to the side of the subject. This provides the
search man with a tactical advantage and prevention from being
struck by the subject’s elbows or knees if he should begin to resist.
3-28. When searching below the subject’s knees, the search man takes a half
step back and to the outside. He squats down, but does not drop his knees to
the ground.
3-29. If no weapons are found and the subject is to be detained, the hands are
secured with Flex-Cufs and the subject is escorted to the holding area. If the
subject is to be released, collect information (name and address) and escort
him away from the crowd.
3-30. Safety is the primary concern when dealing with a subject under
apprehension. Therefore, the search man must protect himself by restraining
subjects under apprehension before conducting the standing search. All
subjects under apprehension have the propensity to turn violent or hostile.
Putting a subject at a physical disadvantage provides safety for the subject
and the search man. It limits the subject’s ability to hide, destroy, or remove
any evidence he may have on him.
3-31. Apply Flex-Cufs to the subject quickly during the apprehension. It is
impossible to predict what a subject will do when put under apprehension. A
subject may initially be cooperative and compliant, but as the subject becomes
aware of his situation he may be overcome with emotion and begin to struggle
or pull away.
3-32. There is no legal or regulatory prohibition against opposite-gender
searches. Common sense prevails and whenever possible, searches should be
done by soldiers of the same gender to avoid obvious questions and
complaints. Once a subject is put at a physical disadvantage by cuffing and is
more easily controlled, it affords the necessary time to get someone of the
same gender there to conduct the search.
e During the preparation phase, the search man—
NOTE: Standing searches always begin with the subject in the
handcuffed escort position (see Figure 3-10, page 3-14).
« Takes his outside hand (farthest from subject) and places it on the
outside of the subject’s elbow while his inside hand (closest to
subject) has a reverse-handshake grip of the subject’s hand. At
this point, both hands are on the same arm (see Figure 3-10,
page 3-14).
a Ensures that his position is on the same side of the subject’s body
being controlled (behind and to the side). When changing sides,
change hand position.
a Instructs the subject to spread his feet until instructed to stop
(usually more than shoulder width) and point his toes outward,
compromising the subject’s balance.
FM 3-19.15 3-13
Apprehension, Search, and Detention
3-14
Figure 3-10. Handcuffed Escort Position
NOTE: Do not kick at a subject’s feet to spread them; it is unnecessary
and unprofessional. If the subject becomes noncompliant or
aggressive, pain compliance is usually the best tool to use, but only
use enough force to gain compliance.
a Uses his outside hand to conduct the search. His inside hand is
always used to maintain control during the search.
e During the performance phase, the search man—
NOTE: Only one side (the front, back, and side) of the subject is
searched at a time from head to toe (see Figure 3-11).
a Divides the subject (visually) (straight down the middle using the
spine as the centerline). He does not cross this line while
conducting the search. Searches must be systematic, from head to
foot. If there is an interruption, it must be started all over again.
=» Searches with an open hand, using a rub down or squeezing
method. Do not only pat down like in the frisk search.
a Works at arms reach. It is the sense of touch, not the sense of sight
that is being used. To prevent the possibility of being struck by an
elbow or knee, the search man stays behind and to the side of the
subject.
= Takes a half step back and to the outside when searching below
the subject’s knees. The search man squats down, but does not
drop his knees to the ground. Maintaining positive control is
essential throughout the search, so never the reverse handshake
is never released.
a Change sides when satisfied that all items have been removed
from the side in which the search started. Without losing positive
control, the search man conducts the search on the other side of
the subject.
FM 3-19.15 18 April 2005
Apprehension, Search, and Detention
Prone Search
18 April 2005
Figure 3-11. Performing the Standing Search
NOTE: Changing sides is accomplished by moving the outside hand
(the searching hand) to the subject’s uncontrolled handcuffed hand
located on the outside. The outside hand and forearm will cross over
the top of the reverse-handshake grip of the inside hand (see
Figure 3-12, page 16).
=» Crosses over the reverse-handshake grip with the outside hand
and grips the subject’s uncontrolled handcuffed hand in a
reverse-handshake grip.
a Releases (quickly) the first reverse-handshake grip moving that
hand to the subject’s elbow as he sidesteps to the side yet to be
searched. The search man repeats the standing search technique
used on the first side of the subject.
a Gives strong verbal commands and uses only the force necessary
to control the subject if he resists or becomes aggressive at any
time during the search.
» Removes all items found during the search to be evaluated as
potential evidence or a weapon. Items not considered a weapon or
of evidentiary value will be returned to the subject at a later time.
3-33. Safety is the primary concern when dealing with a person under
apprehension. Therefore, the search man must protect himself by restraining
subjects under apprehension before conducting this search. Remember that
all subjects under apprehension have the propensity to turn violent or hostile.
That is the reason a prone search would be necessary. After performing an
arm bar takedown on a noncompliant subject, it is especially important for the
search man to put him at a physical disadvantage to provide for the subject’s
safety and his own. By doing so, the subject’s ability to hide, destroy, or
remove any evidence is limited.
FM 3-19.15 3-15
Apprehension, Search, and Detention
Figure 3-12. Performing the Standing Search (Changing Sides)
3-34. The safest way to handcuff or Flex-Cuf a noncompliant subject is in the
prone position, when the search man has greater control of the subject. It is
usually the safest position in which to conduct a search
3-35. Handcuff the subject quickly during the apprehension. It is impossible
to predict what a subject will do when put under apprehension. Often a
subject may initially be cooperative and compliant; however, as the he
becomes aware of his situation, he may become overcome with emotion and
begin to struggle or pull away.
3-36. There is no legal or regulatory prohibition against opposite-gender
searches. Common sense prevails and whenever possible, searches should be
done by the same gender to avoid obvious questions and complaints. Once a
subject is at a physical disadvantage by cuffing and is more easily controlled,
it affords the necessary time to get someone of the same gender there to
conduct the search.
NOTE: The subject is put into a physical disadvantage when he is
taken facedown to the ground using an arm bar takedown and cuffed.
e During the preparation phase, the search man—
a Ensures that the Flex-Cufs are not too tight.
a Rotates his entire body around the subject’s shoulder and center
at the outside of the subject’s hip with his shin over the subject’s
shoulder and one knee on the ground. At least one knee should
remain over the subject’s back (near side), with the other on the
ground.
a Pins the subject down by pressing his knee on the side of the
subject’s back or down on his closest elbow if resistance or
aggression is encountered. He simultaneously grips the subject’s
closest handcuffed hand, grabs it with a reverse handshake, and
applies pain for compliance.
3-16 FM 3-19.15 18 April 2005
18 April 2005
Apprehension, Search, and Detention
a Uses strong, forceful verbal commands, such as “Stop resisting,
stop moving around.”
a Ensures that the subject’s feet and ankles are crossed.
CAUTION
Stay alert. If the subject uncrosses his feet and ankles, it is
usually a sign of preattack.
a Removes all items found during the search so they can be
evaluated as potential evidence. Items not considered a weapon or
of evidentiary value will be returned to the subject at a later time.
e During the performance phase, the search man—
NOTE: The search man must be systematic from head to foot while
conducting the prone search. If interrupted during the search, it is
important to start from the beginning to ensure that nothing is
missed. It is better to go over the same area two or more times than to
miss something that can be used as a weapon.
NOTE: The search man searches only one side (the front, back, or
side) of the subject at a time until that side is complete.
a Divides the subject (visually) straight down the middle, using the
spine as the centerline.
NOTE: He does not cross this line while conducting the search.
=» Searches with an open hand, using a rub down or squeezing
method for best results. He does not just pat down the subject like
in the frisk search.
a Works at an arm’s reach, searching only the area of the subject’s
body that is not in contact with the ground. The sense of touch, not
the sense of sight, is being used.
a Stops the search as the subject’s knees are reached. He taps one of
the subject’s legs and firmly commands him to raise his foot up
and back, allowing for an inspection of the bottom of his foot. He
then searches from the knee to the ankle area. This is performed
on both the subject’s legs and feet.
NOTE: At this point, the entire back side of has been searched. What
remains to be searched is the front side of the subject (the chest and
front of the hips, waist, groin, and thighs).
a Pivots back and faces the subject. Using the hand closest to the
subject’s head, the search man reaches across the subject’s back
and firmly grips the shoulder, rolling the subject up on the his side
toward him to expose the areas not yet searched.
a Rolls the subject back down on his chest once all areas have been
searched.
FM 3-19.15 3-17
Apprehension, Search, and Detention
DETENTION
3-18
3-37. The search man must be completely satisfied that he has found
everything. He must be especially sensitive to areas where weapons are often
concealed like the waistband, the small of the back, ankles, pockets, shoes, the
tongue of the shoes, and the groin area.
NOTE: Before removing subjects from the area, a brief summary must
accompany them. The summary must include the subject’s name,
what he is suspected of doing, the time and date of the incident, and
who saw him do the action.
3-38. Civil authorities must provide adequate detention facilities for all
subjects. Authorities must be prepared to detain large numbers of people.
They may choose to expand existing detention facilities or set up temporary
facilities to accommodate the extra load. If possible, large-scale arrests are
delayed until sufficient detention facilities have been set up.
3-39. If US military forces are committed to support local authorities,
commanders should coordinate with them to ensure that adequate detention
facilities are available and to learn their locations and capacities. If there are
more detainees than civil detention facilities can handle, civil authorities may
ask the military to provide support by setting up and operating temporary
facilities. Army correctional facilities cannot be used to detain civilians. A
temporary military detention facility can be set up if—
e Federal troops have been employed according to provisions.
e The TF commander has verified that available civilian detention
facilities can no longer accommodate the number of prisoners awaiting
arraignment and trial by civil courts.
e The Army Chief of Staff has granted prior approval.
3-40. Use of the temporary facility ends as soon as civil authorities can take
custody of the detainees. Military forces are responsible for the custody,
health, comfort, and sustenance of all detainees in their facilities until custody
is transferred to civil authorities. Temporary facilities cannot be used to
confine people arraigned or convicted in civil courts.
3-41. Women are detained in their own facility. Temporary facilities are
supervised and controlled by officers and NCOs trained and experienced in
military correctional operations. Females guard females. If two female guards
are unavailable, use two male guards or one male and one female guard (see
FM 3-19.40).
3-42. The same operational procedures that apply to the management of an
installation confinement facility (see FM 8-19.40) apply to the management of
temporary detention facilities, except for training, employment, and
administrative discipline. Guards and support personnel under direct
supervision and control of military officers and NCOs need not be trained or
experienced in military correction operations. They must be specifically
instructed and closely supervised in the proper use of force, custodial
procedures, and the completion of military and civilian forms and reports that
may be used. Soldiers that may be tasked to operate a temporary detention
FM 3-19.15 18 April 2005
18 April 2005
Apprehension, Search, and Detention
facility should be familiar with the forms and reports used for civilian
apprehensions too.
3-43. Temporary facilities are set up on the nearest military installation or on
suitable property under federal control. Ideally, the facility should be close
enough to the disturbance area to minimize transportation and escort needs.
However, it should be far enough away not to endanger those being detained.
Whenever possible, existing structures are adapted for this use, but
construction may be needed to provide segregation for ensuring effective
control and administration.
3-44. The basic structure must include the following:
e Search areas.
e Holding areas for incoming men and women.
e A processing area.
e Holding areas for men and women who have committed
misdemeanors.
e Holding areas for men and women who have committed felonies or are
violent.
e A holding area for detainees’ property and evidence obtained during a
search.
e A holding area for administrative support and records.
e A medical station.
e = Latrines.
For more information on these structures see FM 3-19.40.
3-45. Facility personnel must ensure that proper sanitation is maintained.
When large numbers of people are detained or processed through a facility,
sanitation becomes a problem. Medical personnel must conduct regular health
inspections to detect unsanitary practices and conditions.
3-46. Facilities must be organized for a smooth flow of traffic. Processing
stations must be set up so there is a linear or circular sequence of movement.
These stations are set up out of sight of the holding areas. If possible, they are
separated by a door to reduce noise. To reduce distractions, each station may
be partitioned. Detainees may be more cooperative if they are out of sight of
each other.
3-47. Injured people are given prompt medical treatment and transportation
to medical facilities when necessary. A medical aid station for screening
detainees and treating minor injuries is set up inside or next to the detention
facility. Treatment areas, however, must be out of sight of the processing and
holding areas. If possible, access to the medical facility bypasses the holding
and processing areas. Facility personnel may also consider setting up a
separate holding area for injured detainees.
3-48. Detention facility operation plans must contain emergency procedures.
As a minimum, the following areas must be addressed:
e Fire evacuation.
e Disturbance control.
e Facility security.
FM 3-19.15 3-19
Apprehension, Search, and Detention
3-20
NOTE: Depending on the situation, other emergency procedures may
be needed.
3-49. Upon arrival at the detention facility, the detainee is logged in and
searched, regardless of whether a complete search has already been conducted
by the apprehending team in the field. Separate search areas are set up for
men and women. Weapons, contraband, flame-producing devices, suspected
evidence, money, and high-value items are confiscated. Medications are also
confiscated. Medical personnel screen detainees that have had medications
confiscated. Receipts are provided for any property or evidence that is
confiscated. Confiscated items are tagged, and the items are stored ina
controlled-property area.
3-50. As a detainee is brought to the facility, a file is initiated. Assigned
detainee case numbers are used on all paperwork, such as logs, evidence tags,
reports, and visual documentation. All paperwork (including photographs)
that began outside the detention facility is marked with the case number.
Facility personnel may also use hospital identification tags. Using indelible
ink, the case number is written and attached to the tag on the detainee's
wrist. Different colors may be used to identify different subject classifications,
such as misdemeanors, felonies, or violent offenders. If opposing factions are
involved, procedures are established to ensure that members of opposing
factions are not processed together or detained in the same holding area.
3-51. After a detainee has been searched and classified, he is taken toa
processing station where his paperwork is processed. If subjects passively
resist by going limp, they may be moved by wheelchair. This reduces the
number of escorts needed and the fatigue to facility personnel. Paperwork is
reviewed to ensure that all information is complete, including charges,
witnesses, and reasons for the apprehension.
3-52. Equipment such as height charts, scales, fingerprinting equipment, and
cameras must be available for completing the police report and identifying the
subject. Detainees may use aliases and not carry identification, so pay special
attention to obtaining as much information as possible about the detainee's
physical characteristics.
3-53. After processing is complete, the detainee is placed in the appropriate
holding area. Paperwork for the detainee is forwarded to the administrative
section. Files are reviewed for completeness and to determine the disposition
of the detainee. Information from the file may be placed in a computer to find
repeat subjects. Computers may be used to file criminal information only.
3-54. Custody transfers and release procedures must be coordinated with civil
authorities and the appropriate legal counsel. Every effort must be made to
arraign subjects quickly. The purpose of a detention facility is not to keep
people off the streets, but to aid in processing subjects through the legal
system. To speed up the release process, planners should consider issuing
citations or subpoenas for minor offenses.
3-55. Military force members may have to respond to writs of habeas corpus.
Writs are court orders addressed to a prisoner's custodian. Such a writ directs
the custodian to bring the prisoner to court to determine the legality of the
FM 3-19.15 18 April 2005
18 April 2005
Apprehension, Search, and Detention
prisoner's apprehension and detention. Custodians must ensure that all
documentation concerning the case is brought to court with the detainee.
3-56. Military personnel must obey writs issued by federal courts. For writs
issued by a state court, the custodian or his legal advisor should respectfully
reply that US authority is holding the prisoner. The Office of the SJA can
answer any questions and explain the correct procedures.
FM 3-19.15 3-21
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Chapter 4
Riot Shield and Riot Baton Techniques
A soldier may be required to be part of a riot control formation where his
primary weapon is a riot baton and his only protection a riot shield. A riot
baton in the hands of a well-trained soldier is an invaluable weapon in a
crowd control situation and may also be the most appropriate weapon. A
riot baton is a very versatile weapon that can be used as an offensive
and/or defensive weapon. The riot shield offers protection from the top of
the head to just below the knees.
OVERVIEW
4-1. Use of the riot baton and riot shield is based on METT-TC and the
commander’s choice-of-force option. Formations committed to a riot with riot
batons must have lethal overwatch, lethal weapons, and NLW employed
within the formation and reserve forces with additional NL and lethal
capabilities. These forces are positioned to rapidly reinforce the control force
formation.
4-2. During the termination phase of the disturbance (when the violence has
subsided and is expected to remain that way), soldiers are placed ina
defensive posture. They may be equipped with a riot shield and a riot baton to
perform their tasks. The riot shield is primarily a defensive weapon, which
may be used in an offensive mode. It is primarily used as an offensive weapon
when the formation is in close contact with rioters. The riot baton can also be
used when formations are on the offensive and in contact with the crowd.
However, crowd control elements employed with riot shields and riot batons
must have lethal weapons and NLW available.
WARNING
Riot control formations are never employed with riot
shields and riot batons only. There must always be lethal
overwatch elements in position and lethal and NL
capabilities within the riot control formation with a ready
reserve force armed with lethal and NL capabilities.
RIOT SHIELD
18 April 2005
4-3. In the hands of a properly trained soldier, the riot shield has proven to be
the first line of defense for a formation. The riot shield may be used as an
offensive weapon when in contact with an aggressive crowd.
4-4, The riot shield may be held with one arm. It is secured to the weak side
arm with a self-sticking strap system and a handle. This system is designed to
FM 3-19.15 4-1
Riot Shield and Riot Baton Techniques
make the riot shield an extension of the soldier’s arm. The riot shield is held at
a slightly inward angle. This allows for debris thrown at the soldier to fall
harmlessly to the ground (see Figure 4-1).
At the Ready On Guard On-Guard Profile
Figure 4-1. Riot Shield Positions
RIOT SHIELD CARRIES
4-5. The two basic riot shield carries are as follows:
e At the ready. The at-the-ready position is used while in a column
formation or on the move toward hostilities. This position is designed
for rapid movement. It should not be used when in contact with a
crowd.
e On guard. The on-guard position is used when the riot control
formation is in contact with the crowd or contact is eminent. It is used
primarily in the following formations:
5 Line.
a Wedge.
a Echelon.
» Diamond.
a Circle.
DEFENSIVE AND RETENTION TECHNIQUES
4-6. The primary purpose of the riot shield is for defense. However, each riot
shield holder must be proficient in riot shield retention techniques.
4-2 FM 3-19.15 18 April 2005
Riot Shield and Riot Baton Techniques
DEFENSE
4-7. The first line of defense for the formation is the riot shield. It is designed
to withstand strikes from objects thrown by the crowd. In addition to
protecting the riot shield bearer, it also protects other members of the
formation from thrown objects.
RETENTION
4-8. When the control force is in contact with the crowd, the crowd will
attempt to strip the riot shield from the bearer. When a subject grabs the top
of the riot shield (see Figure 4-2), the riot shield holder slaps the riot shield
with his strong hand near the subject’s hands and gives the following
commands (while continuing to slap the riot shield until the subject releases
it):
e “Get back.”
e “Get away.”
e “Stop.”
Figure 4-2. Riot Shield Retention Technique (Top Attempt)
4-9. If the riot shield is grabbed from the bottom (see Figure 4-3, page 4-4),
then the riot shield holder forcefully drops to one knee, pinning the subject’s
fingers and/or hands to the ground. This must be done quickly and with force.
RIOT BATON
4-10. A riot baton in the hands of a properly trained soldier is a formidable
weapon. However, it must be used in conjunction with other measures to be
most effective. Soldiers must be trained with the riot baton to the point that
its various techniques are automatic to them. This training must also include
18 April 2005 FM 3-19.15 4-3
Riot Shield and Riot Baton Techniques
Figure 4-3. Riot Shield Retention Technique (Bottom Attempt)
learning the vulnerable points of the human body so they can avoid areas that
may cause permanent injury or death when struck.
WARNING
The riot baton is never raised above the head to strike a
subject in a club fashion. Not only is it likely to cause
permanent injury; but it also gives an unfavorable image
of the control force. The soldier is also vulnerable to an
attack on his rib cage when his arm is raised.
TARGET AREAS OF THE HUMAN BODY
4-11. The target areas of the human body are divided into three areas that
represent the primary-, secondary-, and final-target areas. These areas are
color coded as green (shown as gray in Figure 4-4), yellow (shown as white in
Figure 4-4), and red (shown as patterned gray in Figure 4-4).
Primary-Target Areas
4-12. The primary-target areas are those areas which, when struck or
restrained, cause the least amount of trauma to the body. These include the
meaty or muscular areas of the body, such as the—
e Foot, shin, and instep.
e Inside and outside of the thigh.
e Lower abdominal region.
e Fore- and upper-arms.
4-4 FM 3-19.15 18 April 2005
Ears
Bridge of nose
Collarbone
abdomen
Forearm
Lower
abdomen
Knee joint
Green (lowest level of
trauma)
Primary-target areas:
Reasoning: Minimum
level of resultant trauma.
Injury tends to be
temporary rather than
permanent; however,
exceptions can occur when
applying as a restraint
technique.
NOTE: When
performing a block
with a riot baton, the
whole body is a green
area, except for the
head, neck, and spine.
Upper lip Hollow
behind ear
Throat
Upper
Shoulder arm
Solar Kidneys
plexus
Inside of
Back of heal
Riot Shield and Riot Baton Techniques
Shoulder
J blades
Tailbone
(coccyx)
(Achilles tendon)
Yellow (moderate
level of trauma)
Secondary-target
areas:
Reasoning: Moderate
level of resultant trauma.
Injury tends to be more
permanent, but may also
be temporary when
applying as a striking
technique.
Rie Ta ADO = ere na Bis as
ed (deadly force) |
Final-target areas:
£] Reasoning: Highest
“4 level of resultant trauma.
Ey Injury tends to be
+] permanent rather than
| temporary and may i
=] include unconsciousness, 3
S| serious bodily injury, i
“| shock, or death.
Figure 4-4. Escalation of Trauma Chart
18 April 2005
FM 3-19.15
4-5
Riot Shield and Riot Baton Techniques
Secondary-Target Areas
4-13. The secondary-target areas are those areas of the body which, when
struck or restrained, cause a moderate level of trauma to the body. This type
of trauma tends to be longer lasting because the time to heal is longer than
with other parts of the body. If these areas are struck with a riot baton,
serious injury may occur. However, some of these areas are used for control or
restraining holds that tend to lessen the threat of injury. Some secondary
targets are the—
e Collar bone and shoulder blades.
e Elbows and knees.
e Upper abdominal region.
Final-Target Areas
4-14. The final-target areas are those areas which, when struck with a riot
baton, cause serious trauma that tends to be fatal or critical. However, there
are some areas that (when used for restraining only), will not cause death or
serious injury. Some final-target areas are the—
e Front and back of the head (eyes, ears, nose, upper lip, and hollow
behind the ear).
e Neck and throat.
e Upper chest.
e Xiphoid process.
e Spinal column.
e Groin area.
JOINTS OF THE HUMAN BODY
4-6
4-15. The joints of the human body are often described as hinges and, when
manipulated in a certain fashion, allow for better control of the subject being
restrained, especially if he is aggressive. When applied correctly, minimal
pressure is needed to control the subject. When a subject attempts to resist, he
creates additional pain for himself. By anatomically locking out these hinges,
the subject will be forced to comply. When restraining a subject, emphasis
must be placed on locking out two of the three joints of the upper body or two
of the three joints of the lower body. The joints are as follows:
e Shoulder. Apply pressure to the shoulder to prevent the subject from
freely moving the upper portion of his body.
e Elbow. Apply pressure on the elbow or just above the elbow on the
ulner nerve.
e Wrist. Apply pressure by pancaking the hand to twist or lock out the
wrist. Apply pressure at the break of the wrist and push the subject’s
thumb toward a stationary object (the wall or the ground) to lock the
hand out.
e Hip. Apply pressure to the hip to knock the subject off balance or alter
his center of gravity.
FM 3-19.15 18 April 2005
Riot Shield and Riot Baton Techniques
e Knee. Apply pressure to the knee by pushing outward on it to cause
the subject to be placed off balance, or use the knee as a hinge for pain
compliance.
e Ankle. Apply pressure to the ankle by clasping and turning it in a
counterclockwise manner to lock the hinge out.
TYPES OF RIOT BATONS
4-16. The Army is currently fielding two types of riot batons, wooden and
expandable. The most common riot baton is the 36-inch hickory riot baton
with thong. There is also the 24- to 36-inch expandable riot baton, which has
been added to the nonlethal capabilities set (NLCS). Regardless of which riot
baton the soldiers are equipped with, all techniques for blocking and striking
are identical. Similar to the riot shield, the riot baton offers soldiers both
offensive and defensive capabilities.
4-17. Soldiers must be properly trained in all blocking and striking
techniques. Improper use of the riot baton by an untrained soldier has the
potential for creating a greater problem than what already exists.
NOMENCLATURE OF THE RIOT BATON
4-18. The riot baton is divided into four basic parts: the long end, long portion,
grip portion, and grip end (see Figure 4-5). Although the expandable and
wooden riot batons differ, their nomenclature is quite similar.
Long end
l
Grip portion
S
Long portion
Grip end
Figure 4-5. The Riot Baton
TYPES OF RIOT BATON CARRIES AND POSITIONS
4-19. As with any other weapon that the soldier will use, there are certain
carries and positions from which the riot baton may be used offensively or
defensively.
Two-Hand Carry
4-20. The two-hand carry is the most common carry for the riot baton. It is
intended for executing all blocks and returning with strikes. When the
expandable riot baton is in the collapsed position (at 24 inches), the long end
of the riot baton is angled downward approximately 45°. When it is extended
to 36 inches the long end is angled upward approximately 45°.
18 April 2005 FM 3-19.15 4-7
Riot Shield and Riot Baton Techniques
4-21. The wooden riot baton is secured with the soldier’s hand by means of a
leather thong. He hooks the thumb of his strong hand (palm down) in the
thong, pulls the thong across the back of his hand, and grips the riot baton.
This provides him with a very secure grip (see Figure 4-6).
4-22. The two-hand carry is intended for executing all blocks and returning
with strikes. The soldier grips the riot baton with both hands. His strong hand
grips the short end of the riot baton, and his weak hand grips the long portion
of the riot baton, 2 to 4 inches from the end. His palm is down with his strong
hand pulled in close against his strong side hip.
4-23. Wherever the long portion of the riot baton is pointed is where the
soldier will strike or jab. The riot baton should be kept at a 45° angle to the
ground. All blocks and two-hand jabs and strikes are executed from the
two-hand carry.
Figure 4-6. Two-Hand Carry
Outside-Arm Carry (Expandable Riot Baton Only)
4-24, The outside-arm carry (see Figure 4-7) is used with the expandable riot
baton in the collapsed (24-inch) position only. Assuming a wide-based
defensive stance (knees slightly bent and feet shoulder width apart), a soldier
draws the grip portion of the riot baton with his strong hand. Without striking
out or widely swinging the riot baton, he brings the long portion up against
the outer part of his strong arm (the tricep area). The soldier’s weak hand
should be raised in a position to protect and block strikes from an aggressor. It
is from this carrying position that a soldier can effectively use both the front
and rear strikes. Front and rear strikes should never be performed with an
expandable riot baton in the expanded position or with a 36-inch wooden riot
baton.
CAUTION
The expandable and 36-inch wooden riot batons provide a
greater risk of injury to the soldier’s wrist.
4-8 FM 3-19.15 18 April 2005
Riot Shield and Riot Baton Techniques
Figure 4-7. Outside-Arm Carry
Vertical High-Profile Carry
4-25. Assuming a wide-based defensive stance, the soldier draws the riot
baton with his strong hand by the grip portion. Once the riot baton has been
drawn from the carrier, the soldier swings the riot baton in a downward
motion, fully extending the arm and holding the riot baton down and parallel
to the strong side leg. The soldier’s weak hand is raised in a position to protect
and block strikes from an aggressor (see Figure 4-8, page 4-10). Although this
carry can be used with both riot baton systems, it is best suited for the
expandable riot baton collapsed to 24 inches. The vertical high-profile carry
clearly shows the soldier with a drawn riot baton in an effective defensive
posture and ready for attack. A drawn riot baton in the hands of a trained
soldier may offer just the kind of deterrence needed to stop the activity of an
aggressor.
Vertical Low-Profile Carry
18 April 2005
4-26. Assuming a wide-based defensive stance, the soldier draws the riot
baton with his strong hand by the grip portion. Once the riot baton has been
drawn from the carrier, the soldier swings the riot baton in a downward
motion, fully extending his arm and holding the riot baton down and parallel
to his strong side leg. His weak side hand is raised in a position to protect and
block strikes from an aggressor (see Figure 4-9, page 4-10). Although this
carry can be used with both types of riot batons, it is best suited for the
expandable riot baton collapsed to 24 inches. This position portrays the soldier
in an effective defensive position ready for an attack, but with a possible
hidden weapon. The major difference between the vertical low-profile and
high-profile carry is that in the low-profile carry the soldier hides the riot
FM 3-19.15 4-9
Riot Shield and Riot Baton Techniques
baton behind his strong side leg, allowing for some element of surprise to a
potential aggressor. A drawn riot baton in the hands of a trained soldier may
offer the deterrence needed to stop the activity of an aggressor.
Figure 4-8. Vertical High-Profile Carry
Figure 4-9. Vertical Low-Profile Carry
4-10 FM 3-19.15 18 April 2005
Riot Shield and Riot Baton Techniques
RIOT BATON BLOCKING TECHNIQUES
4-27. There are five basic types of riot baton blocking techniques that are
executed from the two-hand carry position.
High Block
4-28. The high block is very effective in blocking a downward, vertical strike
directed at the top of the head and shoulders. This type of downward, vertical
strike may be from a club, pipe, or similar object. The high block is a two-step
movement. To perform a high block the soldier performs the following steps:
Step 1. Raises the riot baton straight across his body until it is parallel to
the ground (see Figure 4-10).
Step 2. Brings the riot baton straight-up in front of his body until the
long portion of the riot baton is in front of his forehead (approximately 2
inches from his head). The riot baton should be in a horizontal position
above his head and slightly angled down toward his weak hand, as it
absorbs the shock from the strike (see Figure 4-10). The fingers of his
weak hand should be open and behind the long portion of the riot baton
when blocking the object to protect his fingers from being smashed by the
strike.
Figure 4-10. High Block (Steps 1 and 2)
Low Block
4-29. A low block is very effective in blocking an upward vertical strike
directed at the groin, lower abdomen, chest, or chin. This upward vertical
strike may be from an individual's foot, knee, or fist (for example, an upper cut
to the chin). To perform a low block, the soldier performs the following steps:
Step 1. Raises the riot baton straight across his body until it is parallel to
the ground (see Figure 4-11, page 4-12).
Step 2. Brings the riot baton straight down in front of his body, bending
at his knees and keeping his body upright until the long portion of the riot
baton is just below his knees (see Figure 4-11). The riot baton should be
horizontal and parallel to the ground as it absorbs the shock from an
18 April 2005 FM 3-19.15 4-11
Riot Shield and Riot Baton Techniques
upward strike. His weak hand fingers should be open and behind the long
portion of the riot baton when blocking the object to protect his fingers
from being smashed by the strike.
Figure 4-11. Low Block (Steps 1 and 2)
Strong Side Block
4-30. A strong side block is very effective in blocking a horizontal strike
directed at the strong side of the head, neck, chest (or flank), or hip area. The
horizontal strike may be from an individual’s foot, fist, elbow, knee, or
weapon. To perform a strong side block, the soldier performs the following
steps:
Step 1. Raises the riot baton straight across his body in a vertical position
where the grip portion is in his strong hand and the long portion is in his
weak hand with the fingers straight up (see Figure 4-12).
Step 2. Turns his body laterally by rotating his hips toward his strong
side and moving the riot baton across his body, keeping the riot baton
vertical (see Figure 4-12).
4-31. The strong side block provides protection for a soldier from the front to
the rear of his body. A riot baton held in the vertical position absorbs the
shock of a strike coming from the strong side. The fingers of his weak hand
should be open and behind the long portion of the riot baton, when blocking
the object to protect his fingers from being smashed by the strike.
Weak Side Block
4-32. A weak side block is very effective in blocking a horizontal strike
directed at the weak side of the head, neck, chest, or hip area. The horizontal
strike may be from an individual's foot, fist, elbow, or knee. To perform a weak
side block, the soldier performs the following steps:
Step 1. Moves the riot baton in a vertical position toward his weak side,
ensuring that the grip portion is pointing straight down and the long
portion is pointing straight up.
4-12 FM 3-19.15 18 April 2005
Riot Shield and Riot Baton Techniques
Figure 4-12. Strong Side Block (Steps 1 and 2)
Step 2. Keeps the fingers of his weak hand open and behind the long
portion of the riot baton when blocking the object to protect his fingers
from being smashed by the strike. At the moment of contact with the
opposing strike, the blocking surface of the long portion should be at a
right angle to the opposing object.
Step 8. Assess the situation following a weak side block, and take
appropriate follow-up action, as needed.
Middle Block
4-33. A middle block is very effective in blocking a front horizontal strike
directed at the face, throat, chest, abdomen, or hip. The horizontal strike may
be from an individual trying to tackle near the waist or shove or punch at the
face. To perform a middle block, the soldier performs the following steps:
Step 1. Moves the riot baton toward the middle of his body at a 45° angle,
keeping the long portion pointed up and slightly forward of the grip
portion (see Figure 4-13, page 4-14).
Step 2. Keeps the fingers of his weak hand open and behind the long
portion of the riot baton when blocking the object to protect his fingers
from being smashed by the strike. However, his weak hand may have to
grip the long portion when pushing an individual away or forcing an
individual down on the ground if the individual is trying to tackle.
RIOT BATON STRIKING TECHNIQUES
4-34. Seven strikes can be executed using the riot baton. Two of these strikes
come from the outside-arm or vertical carry. The other five strikes come from
the two-hand carry.
18 April 2005 FM 3-19.15 4-13
Riot Shield and Riot Baton Techniques
Figure 4-13. Middle Block
One-Hand Forward Strike
4-14
4-35. The one-hand forward strike is a very quick and effective offensive
strike. It is usually employed as a countermeasure to an attack from the front
that has been blocked effectively.
4-36. Target areas can be as high as the outside upper arm, down to the outer
thigh region. An effective one-hand forward strike must be aggressively quick,
with the purpose of distracting, disabling, or altering behavior. Therefore,
those employing this technique must be sensitive to what part of the riot
baton they use to strike the individual. Strike the target with the last 2 to 4
inches of the long end for optimal results.
4-37. A one-hand forward strike may be employed in one of the following
three ways. When selecting available targets, use the principles in Figure 4-4,
page 4-5.
e A horizontal manner.
e A downward diagonal manner to destabilize an individual.
e A vertical manner in front of the body to clear an aggressor’s hands.
NOTE: When the one-hand forward strike is used in a vertical
manner, keep the long portion straight up, not angled forward. By
keeping the long portion up rather than angled forward, the chance
of striking the individual in the face or head is significantly reduced.
For the counterstrike to be effective, follow through with the
technique when the baton makes contact with the aggressor and/or
his object to destabilize the him. A pattern of movement such as a
FM 3-19.15 18 April 2005
Riot Shield and Riot Baton Techniques
forward shuffle, forward pivot, strong side step, or rear pivot may
enhance this technique.
WARNING
Do not execute the one-hand forward strike with the
wooden or expandable riot baton in the extended position.
It has been shown to cause injury to the wrist of the user.
4-38. When using the vertical or outside-arm carry position (see Figures 4-7,
page 4-9 and 4-8, page 4-10), the soldier quickly moves the riot baton across
his body using the strength and power of his hips, moving from his strong side
to his weak side (see Figure 4-14, page 4-16). Ending this strike leaves the riot
baton positioned under the weak side armpit in preparation for the one-hand
reverse strike (see Figure 4-14). When delivering this strong side strike
technique (in a horizontal or downward diagonal manner), ensure that the
palm is facing up. In a vertical delivery, the palm will be toward the chest
rather than up. Pause following the one-hand forward strike and assess the
situation. Take appropriate follow-up action, as needed. If the situation does
not call for additional strikes, avoid striking again.
One-Hand Reverse Strike
18 April 2005
4-39. The starting position for the one-hand reverse strike is under the weak
side armpit (see Figure 4-14). The one-hand reverse strike is used as a follow-
up strike and is quick and effective.
4-40. Target areas can be as high as the outside upper arm, down to the outer
thigh region. An effective one-hand reverse strike must be aggressively quick,
with the purpose of distracting, disabling, or altering behavior. Therefore,
those employing this technique must be sensitive to what part of the riot
baton they use to strike the individual. Strike the target with the last 2 to 4
inches of the riot baton for optimal results.
4-41. A soldier may employee a reverse strike in one of the following three
ways:
e A horizontal manner.
e A downward diagonal manner to destabilize an individual.
e A vertical manner.
4-42. In front of the body to clear an individual’s hands. When the one-hand
reverse strike is used in a vertical manner, keep the long portion straight up,
not angled forward. By keeping the long portion up rather than angled
forward, the chance of striking the individual in the face or head is
significantly reduced. When selecting available targets, use the principles in
Figure 4-4, page 4-5.
4-43. The one-hand reverse strike is considered a follow-up strike to the one-
hand forward strike. As a follow-up strike, it is important that soldiers are
taught the discipline of assessing the target. An aggressor may not require
another strike, based on his condition and actions after enduring the one-hand
forward strike.
FM 3-19.15 4-15
Riot Shield and Riot Baton Techniques
Forward Strike Target Assessment Reverse Strike
Figure 4-14. One-Hand Forward and Reverse Strikes
4-44, When using the one-hand reverse strike, the solder quickly moves the
straight baton across his body, using the strength and power of his hips (from
weak side to strong side). When the strike is completed, the soldier’s arm will
be back in the outside-arm carry position (see Figure 4-7, page 4-9). The
soldier ensures that his palm is facing down when delivering the counterstrike
in a horizontal or diagonal manner. This will prevent injury to the user’s
wrist. In a vertical delivery, the palm will be toward the chest rather than up.
Following the one-hand reverse strike, assess the situation and take
appropriate follow-up action, as needed. If the situation does not call for
additional strikes, the soldier should avoid striking again.
4-45. When the one-hand reverse strike is used in a vertical manner, keep the
long portion straight up, not angled forward. By keeping the long portion up
rather than angled forward, the chance of striking an individual in the face or
head is significantly reduced. For the counterstrike to be effective, follow
through with the technique when the baton makes contact with the aggressor
and/or his object to destabilize him. A pattern of movement such as the
forward shuffle, forward pivot, strong side step, or rear pivot may enhance
this technique.
WARNING
This strike will not be executed with a 36-inch wooden or
expandable riot baton in the extended position. It has
been shown to cause injury to the wrist of the user.
Two-Hand Strong Side Horizontal Strike
4-46. Starting from the two-hand carry position, the two-hand strong side
horizontal strike can be aggressively quick. The purpose of this strike is to
create distance, distract, disable, or alter behavior. Strong side horizontal
strikes are quick and effective offensive strikes, usually employed as a
4-16 FM 3-19.15 18 April 2005
Riot Shield and Riot Baton Techniques
countermeasure to close frontal attacks that have been effectively blocked.
When selecting available targets, use the principles in Figure 4-4, page 4-5.
4-47. The two-hand carry position enables soldiers to use riot batons at the
24- or 36-inch length. To effectively employ this strike, use the strength and
power of the hips to thrust the riot baton in a horizontal manner.
Simultaneously, pull back with the weak hand as the strong hand drives the
grip end toward the target, striking a rib or the abdominal region of the
aggressor (see Figure 4-15, page 4-18). Following the two-hand strong side
horizontal strike, assess the target before following up with another strike. An
aggressor may not require another strike, based on his condition and actions
after enduring the one-hand forward strike.
NOTE: A pattern of movement such as a forward shuffle or forward
pivot may enhance this technique.
Two-Hand Weak Side Horizontal Strike
4-48. An effective two-hand weak side horizontal strike must be aggressively
quick to create distance, distract, disable, or alter behavior. The weak side
horizontal strike is a quick and effective offensive strike usually employed as
a follow-up strike to the strong side horizontal strike. It is a countermeasure
designed to close frontal attacks that have been effectively blocked. When
selecting available targets, use the principles in Figure 4-4. Maintaining a
strong defensive stance after employing a strong side horizontal strike puts
the soldier in position to execute a two-hand weak side horizontal strike.
4-49. Use of the two-hand carry position enables soldiers to use riot batons at
24 or 36 inches. To effectively employ this strike, use the strength and power
of the hips to thrust the riot baton in a horizontal manner. Simultaneously,
pull back with the strong hand as the weak hand drives the grip forward
toward the aggressor, striking a rib or the abdominal region of the target (see
Figure 4-15). Following the two-hand weak side horizontal strike, it is
important to assess the aggressor. An aggressor may not require another
strike, based on his condition and actions after enduring the one-hand forward
strike.
NOTE: A pattern of movement such as a forward shuffle or forward
pivot may enhance this technique.
Two-Hand Front Jab
18 April 2005
4-50. The two-hand front jab starts from the two-hand carry position (see
Figure 4-16, page 4-18). It is aggressively quick and creates distance,
distracts, disables, and/or alters behavior. Front jabs are effective offensive
strikes, usually employed as a countermeasure to charging and overpowering
frontal attacks. When selecting available targets, use the principles in
Figure 4-4.
FM 3-19.15 4-17
Riot Shield and Riot Baton Techniques
Figure 4-15. Two-Hand, Strong Side, and Weak Side Horizontal Strikes
4-51. Use of the two-hand carry position enables soldiers to use riot batons at
24 or 36 inches. Use the strength and power of the hips to effectively employ
this strike in a slightly downward or horizontal manner. Simultaneously, use
both arms to shoot the long end of the riot baton straight out from the body to
the target area. Immediately, pull back the riot baton to the two-hand carry
position (see Figure 4-16).
Figure 4-16. Front Jab
4-52. Forward jabs drive the long end of the riot baton toward the aggressor,
striking a rib, a hip flexor, or the abdominal region (see Figure 4-4, page 4-5).
Following the two-hand front jab, it is important that soldiers assess the
aggressor before following through with another strike, as the aggressor may
not require another strike.
NOTE: A pattern of movement such as a forward shuffle will enhance
the power of this technique.
4-18 FM 3-19.15 18 April 2005
Riot Shield and Riot Baton Techniques
Two-Hand Rear Jab
4-53. Starting from the two-hand carry position, the two-hand rear jab is
aggressively quick and creates distance, distracts, disables, or alters behavior.
Rear jabs are quick and effective offensive strikes usually employed as a
countermeasure to charging and overpowering attacks from the rear. When
selecting available targets, use the principles in Figure 4-4, page 4-5.
4-54. Use of the two-hand carry position enables soldiers to employ riot
batons at 24 or 36 inches. To effectively employ this strike, use the strength
and power of the hips to thrust the riot baton in a slightly downward or
horizontal manner. Simultaneously, turn the head to the rear to see and
assess the target. Use both arms to shoot the riot baton straight back from the
body to the targeted area and immediately pull back the riot baton to the two-
hand carry position (see Figure 4-17).
NOTE: A pattern of movement such as a rear shuffle will enhance the
power of this technique.
Figure 4-17. Rear Jab
Two-Hand Middle Strike
4-55. The two-hand middle strike starts from the two-hand carry position. It
is aggressively quick and creates distance, distracts, disables, or alters
behavior. It is proven to be an effective follow-up technique to a two-hand
weak or strong side block or to destabilize an individual by pushing him back
and away. The two-hand middle strike is used as a two-count movement.
When selecting available targets, use the principles in Figure 4-4.
4-56. To perform a two-hand middle strike (see Figure 4-18, page 4-20) the
soldier does the following:
Step 1. Brings the riot baton up to chest level and slightly off parallel to
the ground.
Step 2. Steps forward aggressively, simultaneously thrusting the long
portion of the riot baton forward in a horizontal manner. Both arms are
18 April 2005 FM 3-19.15 4-19
Riot Shield and Riot Baton Techniques
fully extended at the end of the movement with a quick snappy return to
the step 1 position. Use the entire body to generate the power.
NOTE: It is important that soldiers assess the aggressor before
applying a follow-up strike. If the soldier steps forward as he employs
the middle strike, it will afford greater impact and power.
Figure 4-18. Middle Strike
Riot Baton Retention
4-20
4-57. A common technique an aggressor may use is grabbing for a soldier’s
riot baton or, in some cases, even taking the riot baton and using it against
the soldier. This causes a disruption or distraction.
4-58. Maintaining physical control of the riot baton is essential for the safety
of the soldier and the control force as a whole. Aggressors will generally
attempt to grab the riot baton where they can get the strongest hold. Soldiers
must resist the instinct of getting into a tug-of-war match over the riot baton,
which often proves to be ineffective.
4-59. Using the momentum of the aggressor to pull the riot baton away, the
soldier simply steps into or closer to the aggressor with the weak side foot.
With the momentum created, the aggressor’s hold on the riot baton is
lessened. The soldier then rapidly uses the tracing-C technique to recover the
riot baton.
4-60. A soldier using the tracing-C technique does the following:
Step 1. Pushes up on the riot baton.
Step 2. Pulls the riot baton around in an upward swing as if tracing a C
in the air from bottom to top with the long end.
NOTE: This movement seems to wrap the aggressor’s arms around
themselves (see Figure 4-19).
Step 3. Drives (immediately with a quick and forceful movement) the
long end of the riot baton straight down, as if slicing the C in half (see
Figure 4-19).
FM 3-19.15 18 April 2005
Riot Shield and Riot Baton Techniques
Figure 4-19. Riot Baton Retention
4-61. Once the soldier reaches the top of the C and the aggressor is tied up, it
is impossible for the aggressor to maintain hold of the riot baton. Further
actions such as a strike may or may not be necessary. Soldiers must be able to
assess the situation and react accordingly.
WORKING AS A TEAM
4-62. Soldiers never have to rely solely on their own skills or abilities in riot
control operations. Although individual skills were discussed in this chapter,
it is important to remember that well-trained soldiers employing offensive,
defensive, riot shield, and riot baton techniques will perform the collective
task of crowd control well.
4-63. Riot control operations are dynamic and often chaotic. Soldiers armed
with riot shields provide a first line of defense while those armed with riot
batons and firearms provide overwatch as the formation moves toward
engaging a hostile crowd. To work effectively and in concert, soldiers must be
properly trained, drilled, and exercised. If an aggressor approaching a line of
skirmishers violently grabs a riot shield, help is required to maintain control
(see Figure 4-20, page 4-22). A soldier armed with a 36-inch wooden riot baton
or an expandable riot baton (extended to 36 inches) can be of assistance. The
soldier simply moves forward into a gap between the riot shields where he can
quickly strike the top or side of the riot shield, slicing the long end across or
straight down onto the hands and fingers of the aggressor (see Figure 4-18).
4-64. Riot batons are not the only way to effectively knock an aggressor’s
hands from a riot shield. Soldiers armed with 12-gauge shotguns or
M16/M208s can just as effectively smash the hands or fingers of a persistent
aggressor with the barrel of their weapons using the technique described
above.
18 April 2005 FM 3-19.15 4-21
Riot Shield and Riot Baton Techniques
Figure 4-20. Clearing a Riot Shield
NONLETHAL MUNITIONS
4-65. With the inclusion of NL munitions, commanders now have additional
tools that afford excellent standoff capabilities. This is critical because
commanders now have intermediate options for dealing with a hostile crowd.
No longer will a commander issue a proclamation, have it ignored by the
crowd, and then be forced to use lethal munitions to backup the proclamation.
Now he can use NL munitions to gain the same standoff distance but without
the catastrophic results of lethal munitions.
4-66. NL munitions include (but are not limited to) a 12-gauge shotgun and
40-millimeter rounds. These blunt munitions have the capability of effectively
engaging targets as close as 5 meters and as far as 50 meters. Range is
dependent upon each round. These munitions are used from a distance to
dissuade, discourage, and disperse the crowd. If the crowd disperses from 50
meters and soldiers are in close contact with the crowd, then the mission has
been successful.
TAP-DOWN TECHNIQUE
4-22
4-67. Commanders must be familiar with the characteristics and capabilities
of all rounds to use them effectively. When 12-gauge and M203 weapons are
used within a line of skirmishers (usually located behind the riot shields), it is
imperative that a method is developed, trained, and practiced to effectively
operate as a team. Operators of these weapons may encounter problems in riot
control situations when trying to identify and effectively engage legitimate
targets. The tap-down technique is used to overcome target identification and
engagement with NL munitions. If ordered to engage targets or the situation
authorizes an engagement, soldiers armed with NL munitions may step
forward, level their weapons, and fire upon legitimate targets (see
Figure 4-21).
4-68. A soldier that is armed with a NLW and is using the tap-down
technique must first tap on the shield holder’s shoulder. Tapping on the shield
holder’s shoulder alerts him that the gunner is preparing to fire. In response
FM 3-19.15 18 April 2005
Riot Shield and Riot Baton Techniques
to the tap, the shield holder drops to one knee while keeping the riot shield
firmly affixed to their front for protection. The gunner takes a step forward
and fills the gap. He then leans into the riot shield bearer’s back with his knee
and fires. This technique ensures that the long end of the weapon is extended
beyond the riot shield.
WARNING
The long end of the weapon must be projected beyond the
riot shield before firing. This is a critical safety step, which
will prevent NL projectiles from hitting the riot shield and
injuring soldiers.
4-69. Once soldiers firing munitions have fired, they raise their weapon back
to a high port arms. The soldiers clear their weapons and tap the riot shield
bearer a second time, signaling them to rise to a standing position.
Figure 4-21. Tap-Down Technique
18 April 2005 FM 3-19.15 4-23
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Chapter 5
Nonlethal Capabilities Set and Employment Considerations
During the past several decades, US forces have regularly performed
peacekeeping and peace enforcement missions at a greater tempo than in
the past. In the peacekeeping and peace enforcement environment, the use
of conventional firearms or the threat of their use may not be the solution
to a situation where US forces must separate two belligerent, hostile
ethnic groups or prevent a similar group from entering an area that is
off-limits to them. However, a show of force using NLW and NL munitions
will cause crowds to disperse, separate, or leave the area with minimal
casualities. The NLCS is a well-rounded, versatile package of both
commercial off-the-shelf (COTS) and government off-the-shelf (GOTS) NL
equipment and munitions. NLCS contents are divided into four distinct
categories: personnel protectors, personnel effectors, mission enhancers,
and training devices.
PERSONNEL PROTECTORS
5-1. Personnel protectors provide the individual soldier with added protection
to the sensitive and vital areas of his body. They provide excellent protection
for the individual soldier from trauma often inflicted by thrown objects (such
as rocks, bricks, sticks, and bottles).
NONBALLISTIC RIOT FACE SHIELD
5-2. A nonballistic riot face shield (see Figure 5-1, page 5-2) has two
adjustable positions and is constructed of hard durable plastic that securely
attaches to the Kevlar® helmet. It may be worn with an M17 or M40
protective mask and is designed to protect the soldier’s head, face, and neck
from thrown objects. Nonballistic riot face shields will not protect from attacks
with ballistic weapons, such as firearms. All soldiers operating in a civil
disturbance environment should be outfitted with riot face shields.
NONBALLISTIC FULL-LENGTH SHIELD
18 April 2005
5-3. A nonballistic full-length riot shield (see Figure 5-2, page 5-2) is a body
shield constructed of hard durable plastic. Left- and right-handed personnel
can easily use the nonballistic full-length riot shield. It is designed to protect
the soldier’s face, torso, and upper legs from thrown objects. Nonballistic full-
length riot shields will not provide protection from ballistic weapons. Only the
front line of skirmishers and those providing lateral protection to both flanks
of the formation will be outfitted with nonballistic full-length riot shields.
FM 3-19.15 5-1
Nonlethal Capabilities Set and Employment Considerations
Figure 5-1. Nonballistic Riot Face Shield
Figure 5-2. Nonballistic Full-Length Riot Shield
NONBALLISTIC SHIN GUARD
5-4. The nonballistic shin guards (see Figure 5-8) are constructed of hard
durable plastic and are easily fastened to a soldier’s legs. They are designed to
protect the soldiers, feet, shins, and knees from thrown objects. They will not
provide protection from ballistic weapons, such as firearms. All soldiers
operating in a civil disturbance environment should be outfitted with shin
guards.
BALLISTIC RIOT FACE SHIELD
5-5. The ballistic riot face shield (see Figure 5-4) has two adjustable positions
constructed of acrylic and bullet-resistant materials that provide the wearer
with Level IIIA protection. The ballistic riot face shield easily attaches to the
Kevlar helmet and is capable of being worn with either an M17 or M40
protective mask. It will protect the soldier from hand-thrown objects. Because
of its excessive weight (3.4 pounds), the ballistic riot face shield should not be
worn for standard riot control operations. Ballistic riot face shields are best
suited for use within specialized teams associated with riot control operations;
for example, teams responsible for the search and apprehension of identified
criminals or building- and alley-clearing operations.
FM 3-19.15 18 April 2005
Nonlethal Capabilities Set and Employment Considerations
Figure 5-3. Nonballistic Shin Guards
Figure 5-4. Ballistic Riot Face Shield
BALLISTIC FULL-LENGTH RIOT BODY SHIELD WITH LIGHT KIT
18 April 2005
5-6. The ballistic full-length riot body shield (see Figure 5-5, page 5-4) is
constructed from Spectra Shield® bullet-resistant material that provides a
soldier with Level IIIA protection. It will protect the soldier from thrown
objects. Because of its excessive size (18 pounds and 20 by 36 inches), the
ballistic full-length riot body shield should not be used as part of a standard
riot control operation. Ballistic full length riot body shields are best suited for
use within specialized teams associated with riot control operations; for
example, teams responsible for the search and apprehension of identified
criminals or building- and alley-clearing operations.
FM 3-19.15 5-3
Nonlethal Capabilities Set and Employment Considerations
Figure 5-5. Ballistic Full-Length Riot Body Shield
BALLISTIC SHIN GUARDS
5-7. Ballistic shin guards (see Figure 5-6) are constructed of Kevlar KM2
materials and provide a soldier with Level IIIA protection to the feet, shins,
and upper legs. They protect the soldier from hand-thrown objects. There are
three different sizes, and because of their excessive weight (7 to 10 pounds),
ballistic shin guards should not be deployed as part of a standard riot control
operation. Ballistic shin guards are best suited for use within specialized
teams associated with riot control operations; for example, teams responsible
for the search and apprehension of identified criminals or building- and
alley-clearing operations.
Figure 5-6. Ballistic Shin Guards
PERSONNEL EFFECTORS
5-8. Personnel effectors are those items that provide soldiers with an NL
response without the necessity of always coming into direct physical contact
with aggressors. Personnel effectors are 12-gauge and 40-millimeter
ammunition that inflict blunt trauma. These munitions are compatible with
the shotgun and the M203 grenade launcher already in the Army inventory.
There are also diversionary and rubber ball grenades, which distract and
inflict blunt trauma.
FM 3-19.15 18 April 2005
Nonlethal Capabilities Set and Employment Considerations
WOOD RIOT BATON WITH BELT RING (36 INCHES)
5-9. The 36-inch wood riot baton (see Figure 5-7) is made from solid oak.
When held properly, the riot baton thong provides greater retention
capabilities. Intended primarily for self-defense, the 36-inch wood riot baton
can be used effectively as an offensive tool if it becomes necessary to keep
rioters out of arm’s reach of soldiers conducting crowd control operations.
Figure 5-7. Wood Riot Baton
EXPANDABLE RIOT BATON WITH CARRIER (24 TO 36 INCHES)
5-10. The expandable riot baton (see Figure 5-8) provides the soldier with an
NL means of crowd control and self-defense. The riot baton comes with a
mounting device that attaches the riot baton to a belt. The riot baton is 24 to
36 inches in length and is primarily intended for self-defense. The expandable
riot baton can be used effectively as an offensive tool if it becomes necessary to
keep rioters out of arm’s reach of soldiers conducting crowd control operations.
Figure 5-8. Expandable Riot Baton and Carrier
18 April 2005 FM 3-19.15 5-5
Nonlethal Capabilities Set and Employment Considerations
500 (3 INCH) 12-GAUGE SHOTGUN
5-11. The 12-gauge shotgun (see Figure 5-9) is a pump action shotgun
currently in NLCS inventory. The pump action shotgun is chambered to take
up to 3-inch shells. The 3-inch chamber allows for the use of M1012 and
M1013 NL munitions. This shotgun also provides a visually distinct
alternative to standard military weapons that may be desired based on
mission considerations (force signature and acceptability).
” a
Figure 5-9. 12-Gauge Shotgun
M7 66-MILLIMETER LAUNCHER WITH M315 INSTALLATION KIT
5-12. The M7 (see Figure 5-10) is a 66-millimeter vehicle-mounted, NL,
egrenade-launching device that is mounted on a HMMWYV. It is an indirect fire
support system that can deliver the M98 distraction grenade that creates a
flash-bang effect, L96A1 antiriot grenade, or M99 blunt trauma grenade that
creates a sting-ball effect. The M315 installation kit is used to install an M7
discharger on the turret ring of appropriate HMMWV variants. An adjustable
bracket allows the launch angle to be depressed for engaging targets at ranges
of 50, 75, and 100 meters. The system enforces standoff distances and deters
potential threats.
Figure 5-10. M7 Launcher
5-6 FM 3-19.15 18 April 2005
Nonlethal Capabilities Set and Employment Considerations
MODIFIED CROWD CONTROL MUNITION-GROUND EMPLACEMENT
5-13. Similar in nature to the claymore mine, the modified crowd control
munition-ground emplacement (MCCM-GE) (see Figure 5-11) is an NL
munition that can deliver six hundred .32-caliber rubber pellets and a flash-
bang effect. The MCCM-GE will stop, confuse, disorient, and/or temporarily
incapacitate area targets and/or personnel at ranges out to 30 meters.
WARNING
Avoid employing the MCCM-GE within 10 meters of
personnel as it may cause serious bodily harm or death.
Figure 5-11. MCCM-GE
12-GAUGE, FIN-STABILIZED POINT, NONLETHAL CARTRIDGE (M1012)
5-14. The M1012 (see Figure 5-12) is a single projectile round made of hard
rubber that is shaped like a bomblet and designed to be fired a at a single
target. With a muzzle velocity of 500 feet per second, the M1012 has the
effective range of no closer than 5 meters and no further than 30 meters.
Engagement inside 5 meters could cause serious injury or death. Beyond 30
meters the kinetic energy dissipates to the point where the round becomes
ineffective.
Figure 5-12. M1012
18 April 2005 FM 3-19.15 5-7
Nonlethal Capabilities Set and Employment Considerations
12-GAUGE, CROWD DISPERSAL, NONLETHAL CARTRIDGE (M1013)
5-15. The M1018 (see Figure 5-13) is a multiple projectile round with .23
caliber hard rubber pellets that is designed to be fired at and employed with
the purpose of affecting multiple targets. With a muzzle velocity of 900 feet
per second, the M1018 has an effective range of no closer than 5 meters and no
further than 30 meters. Engagement inside 5 meters could cause serious
injury or death. Beyond 30 meters, the kinetic energy dissipates to the point
where the rubber pellets become ineffective.
Figure 5-13. M1013
40-MILLIMETER SPONGE GRENADE (M1006)
5-16. The M1006 (see Figure 5-14) is a single projectile round made of pliable
foam rubber with a hard plastic back. The M1006 is designed to be aimed and
fired at a single target
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