Shootout Protocol
Purpose
The Shootout Protocol governs police response to active gunfire between criminal groups, gangs, or civilians. Its goal is to prioritize de-escalation, promote structured and immersive RP, and prevent unnecessary force unless public or officer safety is at serious risk.
Please note:
If the shootout occurs within known gang territory, the timer increases to 15 minutes.
If the shootout occurs in a public space risking public safety (e.g., Legion Square, Public Restaurants, etc.) the timer is decreased to 3 minutes.
When to Use
Active gunfire or hostile standoff involving two or more civilian/criminal parties.
No officers have been shot or critically injured (not a 13-A).
Applies to both gang-related and non-gang-related shootouts.
Scene Command is assigned, and the situation is treated as a public threat, not a warzone.
Response Flow
Phase 1: Containment & Observation (Minutes 0–2)
Officers establish a perimeter and begin monitoring the area.
Air-One is deployed.
Units do not engage unless fired upon.
Scene Command assumes control, maintains radio traffic, and begins situational assessment.
Phase 2: Verbal Warnings & Dispersal Order (Minutes 2–5)
Officers use megaphones, radios, or direct negotiation to issue verbal commands:
“All individuals involved in the shooting must leave the area immediately or face arrest.” “This is your only warning — the scene must be cleared peacefully.”
During this time:
Suspects are given a full 5 minutes to stop shooting and leave the area.
Officers may pursue fleeing suspects if it is safe to do so.
Officers may move in to secure evidence or make safe arrests only if they are confident the threat is no longer active.
If one group of suspects attempt to leave, and other suspects on scene attack them, officers should put full focus on the group continuing to present a threat.
Phase 3: Engagement (After Minute 5)
If suspects remain in the area or continue brandishing weapons after the 5-minute dispersal period, officers may move in as coordinated groups of 4, matching the suspected force level for officer safety.
Officers are to continue giving clear verbal commands upon approach:
“Put your weapons down! This is your last chance to comply!”
The goal is still compliance and safe resolution, not immediate force.
If suspects refuse to comply, officers may proceed with:
Lethal incapacitation if a threat is presented, or
Arrest, depending on which is safest and most appropriate for the situation.
If suspects are fleeing pursue them.
All actions must be conducted under scene command direction, with a focus on safety.
If suspects escalate by firing upon officers, the scene transitions immediately into Full Alpha Protocol.
Scene Command Responsibilities
Maintain structure and oversee all phases of response.
Coordinate de-escalation efforts and set the timeline.
Assign units to perimeter, negotiation, evidence collection, and (if needed) arrest teams.
Escalate to 13-A Alpha Protocol only if officers are downed or fired upon.
Officer Safety and Return Policy
Officers who go down may not return to the scene.
Evidence Collection
Evidence may only be collected after the scene is secured and PD maintains full control.
If officers are wiped or forced to retreat, the scene is considered lost, and no evidence may be recovered.
Standard evidence SOP applies:
Photograph the scene
Log weapons, IDs, and casings
File complete incident reports
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