An Evaluation of Light Positioning on Suspect Accuracy in Low Light Environments. (9th May 2022)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Pete Blair, J.; Hunter Martaindale, M.; Spivey, Emily D.
• Is Part Of: Justice evaluation journal. Volume 5:Number 1(2022)
• Page Start: 109
• Page End: 119
• Publication Date: 2022-05-09
• Subjects: Tactics evaluation -- policing -- low light; Criminal justice, Administration of -- Periodicals; 353.4
• DOI: 10.1080/24751979.2021.1970482
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 2475-1979

Abstract

Abstract: Police are sometimes required to conduct searches for hostile suspects or clear a building when an alarm sounds. These searches often times occur in low light conditions. Police will routinely use a flashlight to help with the search. This study evaluates three of the most commonly taught flashlight tactics to assess if any can reduce the likelihood of a police officer being shot by a hostile suspect. The study utilized a randomized controlled trial (n = 236) with random assignment to three test conditions. Ultimately, the study found the Dagger technique reduced the likelihood that participants playing the role of a hostile suspect would successfully shoot the officer in a controlled setting. This finding can directly impact how police officers are trained to operate in low light settings.