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Fortifying ICE Operations with 1982 Sheriff’s Academy Tactics

Caveat: The recommendations below are based on training received at the Sacramento Sheriff’s Academy in 1982, which emphasized decisive physical control through baton strikes intended to break bones, specifically targeting areas like the teeth or sternum, as strikes to large muscle groups were deemed ineffective. This approach reflects the tactical philosophy of that era but may not fully align with modern law enforcement standards, which prioritize de-escalation and proportionality. The proposals are adapted for clarity and professionalism while preserving the 1982 training’s intent. Recent incidents of U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agents facing assaults and projectile attacks underscore the need for robust training and equipment. Drawing from the proven tactics of the 1982 Sacramento Sheriff’s Academy, ICE can strengthen its operational readiness to maintain control in volatile situations. Below are recommendations rooted in that training 1. Advanced Baton Training for Decisive Force the 1982 Sacramento Sheriff’s Academy trained its officers to use straight batons to deliver bone-breaking strikes, targeting critical areas like the teeth, joints, or sternum to neutralize threats decisively. ICE agents should be equipped with straight batons and trained in these techniques to handle confrontations effectively. The specific stance and strike mechanics are as follows:
  • Stance: In a barrier line, agents stand with their left leg slightly forward for balance. The baton is held vertically, with the right hand gripping it approximately five inches from the pelvis, upper right arm locked against the body to serve as a pivot point. The left hand grips the baton four inches from the top, positioned about six inches from the chest.
  • Execution: When individuals approach the barrier line, agents issue a firm command, “Move back!” If the individual advances within two feet, agents lunge forward from their planted rear right foot, simultaneously driving the top of the baton forward with the left hand, using the right hand as a pivot point, to deliver a strike targeting the teeth or sternum. This bone-breaking strike, as taught in 1982, avoids large muscle groups, which were considered ineffective.
This technique ensures agents can assert control swiftly, reflecting the academy’s emphasis on decisive force 2. Equipping Agents with FN P90s for Tactical Dominance in high-risk scenarios, ICE agents should carry the FN P90 personal defense weapon (PDW), chambered for the 5.7×28mm cartridge. Designed by FN Herstal, its compact bullpup design, ambidextrous controls, and integrated reflex sight make it a modern evolution of the firearms training from 1982, which emphasized control through superior firepower. When projectiles are thrown at ICE vehicles, agents should exit with FN P90s raised to make arrests, embodying the academy’s philosophy of asserting dominance. Training on the FN P90 must focus on safe handling, precise targeting, and adherence to use-of-force policies to ensure responsible use, balancing the 1982 mindset with modern standards 3. Canine Units for Pursuit and the 1982 academy recognized canine units as essential for crowd control and suspect apprehension. Each ICE field unit should include a trained canine team to deter aggression and pursue fleeing suspects. When rocks are thrown at ICE vehicles, agents should exit with batons or FN P90s to make arrests, with canines deployed to chase fleeing individuals. This approach aligns with the academy’s focus on using all available tools to maintain authority 4. Training for Tactical Control 1982 Sacramento Sheriff’s Academy emphasized never retreating in the face of resistance, using decisive force to establish control. ICE training should reflect this, including:
  • Scenario-based drills simulating assaults or projectile attacks, emphasizing rapid, bone-breaking baton strikes.
  • Firearms training with the FN P90 to ensure tactical readiness.
  • Canine handling courses to maximize effectiveness in pursuits.
While modern training emphasizes de-escalation, ICE should integrate the 1982 focus on tactical dominance, ensuring agents act decisively within current legal frameworks. Conclusion: agents face dangerous situations requiring robust training and equipment. By adopting the 1982 Sacramento Sheriff’s Academy tactics—bone-breaking baton strikes targeting the teeth or sternum, FN P90s for high-risk scenarios, and canine units for pursuit—ICE can enhance its operational strength. These measures, grounded in the academy’s philosophy of decisive control, will empower agents to protect themselves and maintain order, provided they are applied within modern legal and ethical standards.

Published by Editor, Sammy Campbell.