Weapons

PURPOSE: This rule states that the St. Louis Board of Police Commissioners authorizes corporate security advisors, as indicated in this rule, to carry a firearm in the performance of his/her duties. (1) Inspection and Registration. All firearms used by corporate security advisors must be inspected by the departmental armorer and must be registered with the private security section. (A) Only one (1) approved firearm at a time may be carried while on duty. (B) Only weapons approved for use by the board may be carried. (C) The firearm may be worn on a belt at the waist or in a shoulder holster. It may be concealed from the public. (D) Corporate security advisors are required annually to requalify with their firearm(s) during the month of license renewal. Corporate security advisors must qualify with the board-approved weapon(s) they intend to use. (2) Discharge of Firearms. A corporate security advisor may not discharge a firearm in the performance of his/her duties (other than for practice or training at a firing range or similar authorized location), except— (A) When reasonably necessary, in defense of him/herself or another, in order to prevent death or serious bodily harm; and (B) Authorization to carry a firearm may be revoked if the weapon is used in violation of this rule. (3) Shots Fired Report. A corporate security advisor, upon firing his/her weapon or using force to make an arrest, or both, shall notify the nearest police district and request that an official police report be prepared and that a copy be forwarded to the commander of the private security section. (4) Safety First Rules for Gun Handling. The licensed corporate security advisor is responsible at all times for his/her weapon whether in or out of his/her possession. The following rules shall be observed: (A) All weapons should be handled with care and respect; (B) The weapon should be checked for ammunition each time it is handled; (C) The barrel and action must be cleared of obstructions before use; (D) The weapon must be kept in good working condition; (E) The weapon should not be drawn or pointed at any person unless the situation justifies this action; (F) When the weapon is unattended, it must be secured against access by children and curious people; and (G) Ammunition carried on duty must be new factory service ammunition. No reloads or wad cutter ammunition is permitted. (5) Nonlethal Weapons. Corporate security advisors may carry only the following nonlethal defensive weapons or equipment: (A) Leather pocket baton or slapper; (B) Aerosol tear gas dispenser; (C) Baton or nightstick; and (D) Handcuffs. AUTHORITY: section 84.340, RSMo 1986.* Original rule filed June 30, 1992, effective Feb. 26, 1993. *Original authority: 84.340, RSMo 1939.