A Garfield Heights police officer made Ohio history on Christmas night by deploying the Grappler Police Bumper during a high-speed chase, as reported by Police 1.

The officer, whose quick thinking and skill were captured on body camera footage, halted a vehicle driven by a suspect notorious for fleeing law enforcement. Moments after deploying the device, the officer confidently declared, “Grappler successful! Grappler successful!”

The Grappler Police Bumper, created by Leonard Stock, a roofing contractor turned inventor, has been lauded as a groundbreaking tool in law enforcement. Inspired by news of police chases ending in devastating crashes, Stock developed the device to end pursuits safely.

Celebrate Trump's Historic 2024 Victory with the Exclusive Trump 47th President Collection!

“If it saved one life, it was worth it,” Stock explained, underscoring the risks he took to bring his vision to life.

The suspect’s car sits behind crime scene tape at the scene of an officer involved shooting Sunday. A high speed chase that began on NE 14th Street, ended in an officer involved shooting in the 5100 block of SE Silver Springs Blvd. in Ocala, Fla. Sunday morning September 22, 2024. Ocala Police officers tried to pull over a vehicle along NE 14th Street in Ocala and the driver fled. The pursuit ended in the 5100 block of SE Silver Springs Blvd. near the Darrell’s Diner. Two Ocala Police officers used deadly force on the suspect and multiple shots were fired. No one was injured in the shooting and a suspect was taken into custody. The case is still under investigation. [Doug Engle/Ocala Star Banner]2024
This advanced device operates by deploying a strap that entangles the rear wheel of a fleeing vehicle, bringing it to a controlled stop without the chaos often associated with traditional methods like PIT maneuvers. According to reports, the Grappler has been instrumental in over 1,000 successful pursuits across the United States.

How much do you think Elon and Vivek should cut the size of the U.S. government by?

By completing the poll, you agree to receive emails from LifeZette, occasional offers from our partners and that you've read and agree to our privacy policy and legal statement.

The Christmas night incident involved a suspect with a history of fleeing police. The Garfield Heights officer’s swift action ensured the pursuit ended without injuries or collateral damage.

The suspect, now facing charges of felony fleeing, eluding, and obstruction of official business, was apprehended with the assistance of the Cuyahoga Heights Police Department.

The body camera footage provides a testament to the Grappler’s potential to revolutionize police chases, showcasing a safer, more efficient method for law enforcement to manage dangerous situations.

This win for public safety highlights the dedication of officers willing to embrace innovative tools to protect their communities. As more departments consider adopting the Grappler, its inventor’s goal of saving lives and reducing harm continues to resonate.