Prospect Park Police Chief David Madonna and other police officers in the county are studying  the martial art of Brazilian Jiu Jitsu as a way to control violent suspects without harming them, writes Pete Bannan for the Daily Times.

The technique uses pressure techniques to control subjects.

Alexandre “Alex” Quintella, owner of Quintella Martial Arts Academy is a fourth-degree Black Belt in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu.

“Somebody grabs your gun. That is why police officer is scared,” said Quinella. “Somebody grabs his gun and tries to kill the cops. We don’t want this. Our training is more self defense and control than anything else.”

When a violent offender can’t be reasoned with, Brazillian Jiu Jitsu can de-escalate the situation.

It’s gentle pressure on a person’s arm or back to hold them until another officer can handcuff them, Madonna explained.

Delaware County District Attorney Jack Stollsteimer said Brazilian Jiu Jitsu will be discussed at an upcoming county task force on criminal justice.

“We’re going to try to bring everyone around a common table so we can talk about the good things we are doing. And the things we want to do more of in the future,” Stollsteimer said.

Read more about Brazilian Jiu Jitsu here.

You Might Also Like                            

Task Force to Look at All Aspects of Criminal Justice in Delaware County, With Changes Promised

Maintaining Momentum: Protesters Gather Again in Upper Darby With Suggestions for Police

Two Upper Darby Police Officers Help Deliver a New Born in a Parked Car on West Chester Pike