Policy Text
Procedure Number: G11
Revised: 01/06
Revised: 06/10
Revised: 07/12
Revised: 08/13
Revised: 01/16
USE OF PHYSICAL AND MECHANICAL RESTRAINT
AUTHORITY
Title 15 Regulations:
Section 1357 Use of Force
Section 1358 Use of Physical Restraints
Section 1417 Pregnant Minors
Related JDF Procedures:
G10 Use of Force
G20 Pregnant Female Youth
California Penal Code:
Section 3407(a)
OVERVIEW
Physical restraint of a youth is a sustained intervention to control the threat of harm to self and
others. Use of force is defined as physically controlling a youth’s behavior for 15 minutes or
less; physical restraint is defined as physically controlling a youth’s behavior for more than 15
minutes. Deploying OC spray is a use of force. All provisions in JDF Procedures Section G10,
Use of Force, are applicable when force is a precursor to the long-term uses of physical
restraints.
Aggressive behaviors can be expected to subside rather quickly in a use of force situation.
Prolonged instances of physical restraint may be symptomatic of underlying psychological or
medical problems.
The provisions of this section do not apply to the situations when mechanical restraints are
utilized for the movement or transportation of youth.
APPROPRIATE USE
Officers may exercise the use of physical restraint on a youth under any of the following
circumstances, as approved by the SDPO (I), shift supervisor, Assistant Superintendent, or
Superintendent:
1. Youth is an immediate danger to self, other youth, or staff.
2. To protect a youth from self-inflicted physical harm or suicide.
3. To prevent the destruction of property.
When mechanical restraints are necessary, only mechanical restraints approved and supplied by
the department may be utilized. These include:
1. Handcuffs,
2. Leg Irons, and/or
3. Waist chains with attached cuffs.
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