The Cumberland Metropolitan Police Department is officially the first one inIndiana with a novel method for remotely deploying tire deflation devices.
The gadget is referred to as “The Bulldog.” It was created in the Netherlands and utilizes compressed air to extend spikes with a simple button press.
Cumberland Police Chief Suzanne Woodland stated that this method is safer than manually placing them — when an officer throws the devices onto the road and retrieves them. This approach puts them at risk of being hit by the vehicle they are trying to stop.
“You often witness that these officers are attempting to neutralize the danger, protect the neighborhood, and they are sacrificing their lives, which is avoidable,” Woodland stated.
Stop sticks can be launched using the device from as far as 100 yards away.
“They can position themselves behind a vehicle, move further away, press a button to deploy it, press another to retract it, and then it will be significantly safer for them,” Woodland said.
Woodland mentioned that her department typically does not chase down vehicles on their own, but they frequently support other law enforcement agencies.
In 2023, Master Trooper James Bailey and Trooper Aaron Smith of the Indiana State Police were hit and killed by fleeing vehicles while using stop sticks. Sgt. John Perrine from the ISP stated that this is a heartbreaking reminder of the risks involved as they work to safeguard the public during a chase.
We motivate and prepare our officers to position themselves safely behind a barrier,” Perrine stated. “However, we also understand the significance of halting that chase before the driver of the vehicle causes harm to someone else.
Whenever an ISP goes after an individual, security is constantly assessed in real time. Perrine mentioned that they will use any chance to reduce the tension during a chase, such as with stop sticks.
At the conclusion of the day, we’re requesting drivers to take responsibility,” Perrine stated. “If you notice red and blue lights coming up behind you, pull over.
Woodland mentioned that she hopes other departments will also acquire this device to protect their officers from danger. They currently own one unit and she stated they would like to obtain more.
