Law Enforcement Officer (LEO) Near Miss is a voluntary, non-disciplinary officer safety initiative that allows law enforcement personnel to read about and anonymously share stories of close calls or “near misses,” which provide lessons learned that can protect fellow officers in similar situations.
Event summary
Four officers were standing outside of their patrol vehicles talking after clearing a traffic stop. A suicidal and possibly mentally ill individual approached them on foot and started whispering. One of the officers heard the man saying, “Kill me.” That officer also saw that the individual was holding something small in his hand.
The officer drew his pistol and ordered the suspect to show his hands. The suspect produced a 4-inch kitchen knife but quickly dropped it. Officers then handcuffed the individual.
Three of the four officers did not realize the danger involved in the situation and stated that they never thought an armed man would walk up on a group of officers like that. The suspect was within 10 feet of the closest officer when the encounter occurred.
Lessons learned
- Regardless of where you are or what you are doing, be aware of your surroundings by constantly scanning the area. If you are with other officers, be vigilant about communicating any anomalies or potential threats as quickly as possible to the other officers, and work as a team if you are approached by any individual. You can remain professional and welcoming to citizens, while also maintaining good officer safety practices at the same time. Don’t let the fact that you are with other officers lull you into a false sense of security.
- Understand that your presence in uniform or near a marked patrol car may attract mentally unstable individuals. When approached by any individual, remember the biggest threat they present is from their hands, so always scan the hands first while maintaining appropriate distance and positioning.
- When confronted with an individual armed with an edged weapon, distance is your friend. Gaining distance will allow you to give commands, draw your weapon and hopefully defuse the situation.
HOW TO SUBMIT YOUR NEAR MISS
Support this critical officer safety initiative by reading and sharing the near-miss stories and lessons learned that your fellow officers have shared, and consider sharing your own near-miss experiences at LEOnearmiss.org.