By order of the Chief, the temporary authorization for personnel, other than trained SWAT officers, to deploy CS canisters for purposes of crowd control has been rescinded.
Where SWAT is on-scene, consistent with Manual Section 14.090(4), SWAT will follow all department policies and procedures regarding the use of specialty tools, to include the use of CS gas, in life-safety circumstances and consistent with training. In such instances, and until further notice, any deployment must be approved by the Chief or the Chief’s designee.
The City of Seattle Accountability Partners are conducting a review of all crowd control tactics and tools and will issue recommendations within thirty (30) days.
All force used by SPD officers will undergo thorough review.
The City of Seattle Accountability Partners are also conducting a review of all of SPD’s crowd control tactics and tools and will issue recommendations within thirty days.
UPDATE: The department’s previous authorization documents are available here and here.