RPD adopts device to briefly control resisting individuals

RICHMOND, Va. (WRIC) -- The Richmond Police Department has adopted a brand-new device that allows officers to briefly control non-compliant individuals without using force on Friday.

On Friday, March 21, the police unveiled the BolaWrap 150 Remote Restraint Device, a handheld tool designed to briefly control a resisting suspect -- especially in instances when the officer would handcuff them but would inadvertently turn into a struggle that would result in harm to either of them.

“This technology will allow for the safe control of a subject without a use of force,” said Chief Rick Edwards. “This reduces the likelihood that officers would need to escalate their response to higher levels of force to control a situation. It allows for safer outcomes for all.”

According to the Richmond Police Department, the device has a Kevlar cord to wrap around the suspect's body to limit their movements and prevent them from hurting themselves or another person. But officers emphasized that they will handcuff them if the incident escalates.

While not designed to cause any harm, city police said that, before officers use the device, they will loudly announce "bola, bola, bola," which will let out a loud bang when the cord wraps around the suspect.