Requirements Governing the Use of Firearms

(1) The Department shall maintain a public policy, consistent with 103 CMR 505.00, containing the requirements governing the use of Firearms, titled 103 DOC 508, Firearms. (2) The use of a Firearm shall be considered a use of Lethal Force and the reporting requirements of 103 CMR 505.17 shall be followed. Only Firearms approved by the Commissioner and issued by the Department shall be used. (3) An employee qualified to use a Firearm may use a Firearm only when all other means have been attempted or it is reasonable to believe that they would be ineffective, and only under the limited circumstances specified in the Department’s policy governing use of Firearms. (4) Firearms shall not be used without the prior authorization of the Commissioner, or a designee; the Superintendent, or a designee; the Division Head, or a designee; unless an emergency exists requiring the immediate use of Firearms. (5) Anyone who is injured because of the discharge of a Firearm shall receive immediate medical care. Such care shall be documented.