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.
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“If it saved one life, it was worth it,” Stock explained, underscoring the risks he took to bring his vision to life.
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.
Video shows Ohio police utilizing all-new “grappler bumper” technology to apprehend a known runner.
“As much as we’d like them to, violent criminals don’t often walk into police stations and turn themselves in. We have to go get them.” pic.twitter.com/XClYKlBXxU
— Local 12/WKRC-TV (@Local12) December 27, 2024
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.
Police use Grappler device to stop a moving vechicle. 🚔 pic.twitter.com/1RKumAATtn
— HOW THINGS WORK (@HowThingsWork_) July 21, 2023
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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.
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