The “BolaWrap” is a less lethal restraining device used to subdue subjects in various situations.
PEARLAND, Texas — KHOU 11 got a closeup look at a “Batman-like” restraining device used by many law enforcement agencies to subdue subjects before things escalate.
“It’s called the BolaWrap,” said Pearland Police Officer Matthew Hromadka.
We saw a video shared by Pearland police of officers getting certified and requested a closer look.
“It excels in the pre-escalation period, so before it ever does get out of control,” said Hromadka. “It’s used to disorient them, you know, keep them either calm or compliant.” “A mental health situation is a good time to use it as well.”
Hromadka has used it twice himself already and the manufacturer has posted various videos from other departments showing the BolaWrap at work in the field.
“It’s a 7’6″ long tether, Kevlar tether,” said Hramadka. “So, it just wraps around the subject and it’s got two prongs on the end of it just to help stick to clothing.”
Police demonstrated the device with us and included the verbal warning that’s necessary given the device’s startling sound.
“Our policy requires them to announce “Bola Bola Bola” because when it goes off it’s really loud,” said Officer Eric Morton. “It sounds like a gunshot going off.” “We want people to know it was a BolaWrap going off.”
They said it’s just another tool to help reduce injuries to officers and those who may resist.
Like everything, there are critics who say the cost for each device is expensive and that the BolaWrap is easily defeated by some suspects.
But others contend it’s a good “middle ground” device.
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