Everett Police Looking To Try Out Less-Lethal BolaWrap Devices

July 24, 2021

Police Blotter

On Wednesday the Everett City Council is being asked to authorize a pilot project for Everett Police to purchase ten BolaWrap “remote handcuff” devices at a cost of $16,228.00. The devices are considered less lethal and police administrators say will help Everett Police comply with recent laws to use less lethal methods in taking people into custody. Here are a couple of YouTube videos of the device in action by the Mountlake Terrace, WA Police Department.

Here’s a summary of the request as provided to the Council by Everett PD.

An additional request for utilization of the JAG funds is consistent with the Washington State Legislature’s intent to ensure law enforcement officers have access to more less lethal force options, in an effort to reduce Use of Force. Engrossed Second Substitute House Bill 1310, states, “It is the intent of the legislature that when practicable, peace officers will use the least amount of physical force necessary to overcome actual resistance under the circumstances”2
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The EPD has solicited quotes for purchase of a less lethal force device known as the Bolawrap. Described by the company as “remote handcuffs,” Wrap Technologies’ BolaWrap is a handheld restraint tool that fires a lasso-like, 8-foot Kevlar tether with hooks on each end that wraps around a subject’s arms or legs, preventing them from fleeing, punching or kicking. The BolaWrap has a range of 10 to 25 feet and fires the cord at 513 feet per second. The tether is fired from a cartridge, which can be reloaded. The device uses a green laser sight line to assist the officer with aiming3.

This device will provide the needed desires requested by the state legislature and advocacy groups, to provide a lower level force option for our officers.

Here is the full request to the City Council as part of a grant from the U.S. Justice Department also asking for funds to upgrade Everett PD’s Interview Room Camera and Recording System along with Computer Forensics Equipment to aid in processing Body Worn Camera footage.

Everett Police Budget Request and Grant Application.

The Everett City Council meets virtually Wednesday July 28th at 12:30 PM.



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