https://orcid.org/0000-0002-0582-0724
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ABSTRACT
The purpose of this study was to scientifically assess the long-standing 21-foot rule. There are several anecdotal publications looking at the 21-foot rule as a standard in policing. This study uses experimental design to examine whether this standard should continue in modern-day policing. The 21-foot rule was tested in three independent experimental design studies. The first study measured the average speed at which a person could run 21 feet. The second and third studies tested the speed at which an officer could draw and fire their weapon with no stress and under stress respectively. The final study examined methods for increasing survivability for the officer (movement). The findings show the 21-foot rule to be an inadequate standard for officers to safely draw and fire their weapons when being charged by a suspect who’s intent it to cause harm. Additionally, different strategies of moving can increase the officer’s ability to survive.
Disclosure statement
No potential conflict of interest was reported by the authors.
Additional information
Notes on contributors
William L. Sandel
William L. Sandel – Dr. Sandel is an Assistant Professor of Criminology and Criminal Justice at Missouri State University. Dr. Sandel started his career as a Research Specialist at the ALERRT Center. His research interests include police and citizen perceptions of use-of-force, police tactics, active shooter events, and hostage negotiations. Dr. Sandel also conducts research in the area of conservation criminology where he uses his background in Marine Biology to examine crimes against wildlife.
M. Hunter Martaindale
M. Hunter Martaindale – Dr. Martaindale is the Director of Research at the Advanced Law Enforcement Rapid Response Training (ALERRT) Center at Texas State University. Dr. Martaindale is responsible for the development and implementation of ALERRT’s research agenda. His research interests include active shooter events, law enforcement decision making, and the impact of stress on law enforcement performance.
J. Pete Blair
J. Pete Blair – Dr. Blair is the Executive Director for the ALERRT Center at Texas State University. Dr. Blair’s research with ALERRT has focused on active shooter events and policing tactics.