Broward County Sheriff Scott Israel has ordered that deputies must carry a "less-lethal weapon" in a new safety policy.
All law enforcement deputies must carry at least one less-lethal weapon on duty, Israel said in a statement. The less-lethal weapons include batons, pepper sprays and stun guns.
"When your only tool is a hammer, everything looks like a nail," Israel said. "As a result of this new policy, deputies are afforded more options to de-escalate an incident while ensuring their safety, the safety of those around them and the safety of those individuals involved."
Israel also said he approved a "Less Lethal Launcher," which looks like a 12-gauge shotgun, that fires beanbag-like projectiles at people up to 50 yards away.
"Less-lethal weapons are explicitly designed and primarily employed to induce a subject to submit or comply with directions while minimizing fatalities, permanent injuries and unnecessary damage to property and the environment," Israel said.
Deputies will also be required to take training and to demonstrate competency while using the new tools, Israel added.
"The requirement to carry a less-lethal weapon is the right decision not only for our deputies, but for the individual involved in the incident – and without question, it’s good for our society. Most importantly, it will save lives," Israel said.
