Which areas of the body should not be struck with the ASP or PR-24?

The primary reason the head and neck-throat areas should not be struck with an ASP (Armament Systems and Procedures baton) or a PR-24 baton is due to the potential for severe injury or fatal consequences. Striking the head can cause concussions, fractures, or other serious trauma to the cranial cavity. The neck-throat area is particularly vulnerable, as a strike in this region can lead to life-threatening injuries, including damage to the airway or major blood vessels.

The training emphasizes targeting areas of the body that are more appropriate for control techniques, rather than areas that might lead to excessive harm. Understanding these dynamics is crucial for law enforcement officers in order to de-escalate situations effectively while minimizing the risk of causing unnecessary injury. The focus is on using force that is reasonable and proportional, and the head and neck-throat areas do not meet these criteria for striking with a baton.