Tire Deflation Devices - Worth the Risk? What Every Agency Needs to Know

Monday, March 10, 2025

1:30 PM – 2:45 PM PT

Location: 104-C

Moderator(s)

ES

Ernie Sanchez

CA Office of Traffic Safety

Speaker(s)

DS

Dale Stockton

Captain (Ret)
Carlsbad (CA) Police Department

Handouts
Nick Breul

Senior Project Manager
National Law Enforcement Officers Memorial Fund
Washington, District of Columbia
GG

Gordon Graham

Lexipol

Tire deflation devices (TDD), commonly known as spike strips, have been utilized in law enforcement since the late 1990s, often leading to the successful termination of pursuits. Their use has also resulted in collateral injuries and fatalities among both officers and civilians. While data on civilian casualties is limited, at least 45 officers have lost their lives during TDD deployments, with hundreds more sustaining career-ending injuries. The risks associated with TDDs can be significantly reduced through proper training, planning, and policy implementation. Results of a national survey on training and agency practices, lessons learned from TDD-related tragedies and a sample TDD policy will be highlighted. Attendees will gain valuable insights into improving safety and effectiveness in TDD deployments.