Officer Safety Handbook Of Unusual Weapons along with Concealment Methods for Weapons and/or Contraband rd 3 EditionThanks to the assistance of the US Customs Service, the US Army Directorate Emergency Services at Fort Drum, New York, the US & Canadian Border Patrol, MAGLOCLEN, and many other local and state agencies, this compilation of unusual or unique weapons or locations of concealment has grown significantly since it’s first distribution in January 2003. Please feel free to redistribute for officer safety or officer training purposes only. Issue date: January, 2004 Wendy Kierstead 207-725-5521 x143 [email protected] 28 Federal St. Brunswick, Me. 04011 Contents Section 1: FIREARMS – REAL & PRETEND 1) Bangstick Replica Weapon 2) Holster on a Chain 380 Mini-Flashlight Gun 3) Flashlight Firearm E-Holster 4) Motorcycle mounted firearm Zip Gun 5) Tear Gas Guns 6) Folding Handgun Club Shotgun Belt Buckle Firearm 7) Tire Gauge Firearm Pen Firearm 8) Grad 22 Hybrid Knife-Gun 9) Cellphone Gun Vehicle Shade Blowgun 10) Cigarette Case Gun Trigger Controller 11) Knife/Firearm Combo Mini Firearm 12) Select Fire Conversion Device Pen Pistol 13) Armor Piercing Ammunition Briefcase concealed Ruger Pistol 14) Mag Light .410 Shotgun Section 2: KNIVES & OTHER CUTTING WEAPONS 15) Motorcycle Oil Tank Knife Hairbrush Dagger 16) Switchblade Lighters Polymer Plastic Knife 17) Key Knife Lipstick Knife Continued - Section 2: KNIVES & OTHER CUTTING WEAPONS 18) Bike Seat Knife Folding Tactical Knife 19) Twine Knife Umbrella Dagger 20) Money Clip Knife Calculator Knife 21) Comb Knife Ring Knife 22) Keychain Knife Ceramic Knife 23) Key Chain Folding Knife Section 3: UNUSUAL HIDING PLACES FOR DRUGS/WEAPONS ETC. 24) Handgun Hideaway Video Camera Hiding 25) Hidden Compartment in Cadillac Compartment Water Bottle 26) Pepsi Gun Locker Cellphone Hiding Place 27) Dashboard Hiding Place 28) Gun Concealed in Toy Hidden Shoe Pouches 29) Baseball Cap Concealed Compartment 30) Tractor Trailer Hiding Place Concealment Jeans 31) Safe Cans & Candles 32) Thread Spool Hiding Space Drugs in Suitcase Wheels 33) Cocaine in Auto Batteries Cocaine in Truck’s Reserve Gas Tank 34) Picture Frame Hidden Compartments Car Seat Hiding Places 35) Sun Visor Rifle Rack 36) Semi-Tractor Headliner Section 4: EXPLOSIVES 37) Ammunition & Batteries Muriatic Acid Explosive Device 38) Burning Book Section 5: MISCELLANEOUS ITEMS OF INTEREST 39) Electric Jacket Cell Phone Stun Gun 40) Covert Cuff Key Bloodsucking Pen 41) Seatbelt Used for Breaking Handcuff Chain Magic Marker Pot Pipe 42) Cat Heat Key Chain Flashlight Stun Gun 43) Pens that Aren’t Razor Throwing Cards 44) Pepper Spray Ring Cop Killer Gang Graffiti 45) Belt Buckle Handcuff Key Safety Pin Key 46) Vin Tags for Sale Chocolate Mushrooms 47) Petroleum Jelly Based Methamphetamines Drugs Dissolved in Vitamin Syrup Firearms Real & Pretend ” measuring 4-5/8” in length with a 1-¾” barrel and capable of firing either a single .357 magnum cartridge. It is a triggerless device that can easily be mistaken for a tool or some other harmless article. 1 BANGSTICK ADAPTED FOR POCKET OR NECK The following info was passed on to us from MDEA in Houlton. This device is intended for use by fishermen and scuba divers to kill sharks and alligators. These devices can be found at almost any scuba or diving accessories shop.Pg. . A very slight tap at the end of the barrel will cause the device to discharge.) This ‘replica’ phenomenon appears to be escalating and it bears mentioning that many of these weapons are made of metals that are EXTREMELY realistic. The “bangstick” is considered a firearm. A replica Glock seized in November had the same characteristics AND WEIGHT of a real weapon and the only way an untrained eye could tell the difference would be to look down the barrel. INCREDIBLY REALISTIC REPLICA WEAPONS During the months of October and November of 2002 several incidents were covered by the police in Brunswick (Maine) where replica handguns were found either on a suspect or in their vehicles or residences.38 cal. In addition. Section 5871. Maine & the US Border Patrol: A deputy sheriff in Palm Beach County Florida recently arrested a man in possession of a “bangstick. ATF has classified this device as an “any other weapon” that is prosecutable by 10 years in prison and up to $10. they can discharge simply by being tapped on the barrel end.000 in fines under Title 26.38 special or . (In two of these cases the suspects involved were convicted felons. . short Colt. Officers should be extremely cautious when handling these devices. its appearance is deceiving and can lead an officer to discount it as a dangerous weapon. When used in such a way it is attached to a threaded pole and then used as a prod to hit the target. Colorado Police: This holster-on-a-chain is currently available on through various websites and can hold a North American or Freedom Arms .22 Magnum mini-revolver. (This commercially available firearm also comes with a blunt metal end that can be used to replace the lens cap area so the weapon looks like a mini Kubotan.rendering the gun fire-ready.22LR or . is held in place putting the gun on *safety.380 MINI-FLASHLIGHT GUN This small but potentially deadly weapon looks like a normal 4-inch mini flashlight. 2 HOLSTER-ON-A-CHAIN Info from Jefferson County.Pg. The gun is loaded by unscrewing the front lens area and inserting a single round. .* When the back end is unscrewed. the firing pin is freed . When the back end of the flashlight is screwed closed the firing pin.380 round. The same websites also sell neck holsters for knives. but in fact it's a gun capable of firing a . Similar holsters can be custom designed to fit other weapons. ) Please pay CLOSE ATTENTION to all mini flashlights you encounter! . which runs the length of the less than 2-inch-long shaft. The pin automatically releases itself when it's pulled back and discharges the round. firing the weapon. etc. The normal glass lens of each flashlight had been replaced with an opaque cover to disguise the barrel and a plunger was added to the rear. which is intended for the concealment of personal electronics (cell phones.). Newsline subscribers have reported that it is difficult to distinguish between the e-Holster and a shoulder holster for an actual weapon. which has been available for purchase since 1999. The potential dangers that could arise if you are not aware of this product: 1) the possibility of mistaking the e-holster for a weapon holster when a subject goes to 'draw' his or her handheld computer or even a wallet. LLC. The e-Holster consists of a container connected to a strap and strongly resembles a shoulder holster for a gun. handheld computers.Pg. E-HOLSTER -. The plunger strikes the primer.a product of Personal Electronics Concealment. 3 FLASHLIGHT FIREARM From NESPIN: This flashlight is one of 5 taken off a known arms dealer by Swiss police recently. To fire the weapon the plunger must be pulled back and then released.CONCEALMENT FOR PERSONAL ELECTRONICS The Calibrepress Newsline has issued an alert to officers about the e-Holster -. 2) The avenue of weapon concealment this provides for criminals. . . New Jersey: On August 6. When a suspect slams the end cap back against a hard surface. among the most common improvised firearms. By turning his handlebars to the right. 4 MOTORCYCLE MOUNTED FIREARM From Hamilton. which has an end cap with a piece of pointed metal inside it. Luckily the backup officers approached at a “bad angle” so there were no injuries. That "loaded" tube is then inserted into the larger pipe. After the primary tests were performed the driver was arrested for OUI.Pg. ZIP GUN Finding pieces of metal pipe and tubing like these on a suspect may indicate the makings of a zip gun. at Arms. The driver of the motorcycle turned the handlebars to the right and got off the motorcycle. the pointed metal strikes the primer of the round like a firing pin and discharges the weapon. and six rounds clipped to the stock. 2002 a Patrol Officer from the Township of Hamilton PD (Atlantic County. A search of the saddlebags revealed the colors of the “Krooked Eye Hawgs” to which the motorcyclist serves as the Sgt. After local authorities spoke with several other riders. five rounds in the magazine tube. with little chance they will be put back together and identified as a weapon. the barrel was pointing in the general direction of the approaching officers. The weapon was ready to fire. The weapon was positioned so it could have been fired by pulling the trigger (left side) and pointing the barrel (right side) towards a target. it was discovered that the normal position for the handlebars when stopped is to the LEFT. The reason for this alert: Wrapped under a leather jacket and strapped to the handlebars with two quick release bungee cords was a pistol grip 12ga. NJ) stopped a Harley Davidson motorcycle for suspected OUI. Here a .357 Magnum round or similar cartridge is inserted snugly into the smaller-diameter tube. not the right as Ingersoll had turned his. The zip gun can then be disassembled and the parts discarded in different locations. pump shotgun. The shotgun had one round in the chamber. 95 each. Private Detective. Security Guard. For more info go to www.all for $6. To buy any of these items you only need to check off the box indicating you are at least 18 years of age. 5 TEAR GAS GUNS The items shown below are being sold through readily obtained sportsmen and police buff magazines and catalogs. Either handgun will fit in a pocket or their specially designed holster and LOOK ALMOST EXACTLY LIKE A REAL GUN. and we all know no one would EVER lie about THAT. (This is a secure site and you will have to register. Special Investigator or Special Officer in either silver or gold…. The ads explain that no federal license or gun permit is needed to carry one and that they sell for $29. In the same magazine an ad was found for ‘Authentic Professional Badges” with the choice of Special Police.com. THESE ARE . however once you are registered you can access significant police safety info.95 each. These photos were found in a copy of ‘DEER CREEK’ product magazine and were brought to the attention of one of the police safety websites by an Illinois officer.22 CALIBER NON-LETHAL TEAR GAS GUNS.) .calibrepress.Pg. ) BELT BUCKLE FIREARM An online company that is selling the belt buckle shown here with a removable.) THE ‘CLUB’ SHOTGUN This is a ‘CLUB’ car steering wheel locking divice that has been modified to fire shotgun rounds. It was found loaded and ready for use in an eyeglass case. .22 mini revolver mounted in the center. The butt of the gun is on a swivel that allows the trigger guard and barrel to fold into the butt. The weapon is then fired manually by slamming the shaft into the end of the round. fully operational. when the lock end of the Club is pulled back. 5 shot single action .22 cal handgun that is fully functional. the original info on this weapon does not list a town or state where it was discovered. 6 FOLDING HANDGUN This is a folding 5 shot . The handle of the CLUB has been hollowed out to act as a shotgun barrel and. The site also sells other belt buckles with removable knives. A cut-out in the handle accommodates the cylinder.Pg. (Sorry. (This info was gained from a police website and they did not list the location where the gun was recovered. the modified tip of the metal shaft acts as a firing pin. The suspect who had this weapon claimed to have purchased it from a member of the Hell’s Angels.22 caliber pistol that appears to be a tire gauge was recovered by MDEA and Border Patrol agents in Northern Maine on May 3rd . PEN FIREARM From MDEA and the Houlton Border Patrol in Houlton. 2002 following a tip from an informant. 7 TIRE GAUGE FIREARM The Maine Drug Enforcement Agency advises this spring-loaded . Maine: This “pen” firearm was seized recently by officers in Regina. The spring-loaded top is then pulled back and let go. Canada and Border Patrol officers advise finding similar weapons are becoming more and more common. The pen was concealed in her vagina.Pg. MDEA also advises they have been told by ATF that possession of this weapon is a FEDERAL CRIME regardless of the person’s prior record.22 caliber pen firearm that Border Patrol found while searching a female suspected of drug trafficking. The only real indication this is not a real tire gauge (without disassembling it) is the absence of the plastic measuring device. . To fire the weapon the threaded top needs to be removed and the cartridge dropped in. driving the rim-fire firing pin into the cartridge. It is a fully functional single shot . The difference between this model and the AOW model is the fact that it has no firing pin or barrel. applies to all NFA rules." It is manufactured by the GRAD Co. non-gun. The spring-lever trigger mechanism is housed in the lower half of the handle. 8 GRAD 22 HYBRID KNIFE-GUN There is now more information available on the knife-gun combination known as the G. and Blank-only gun (which as the name suggests.75-in. but it can fire five .22 caliber rifle cartridges.AOW (All Other Weapons firearm). The weapon is marketed as offering the "newest in knife/gun technology. just above the top edge of the blade. a firing mechanism and a 1. shoots blanks).R. When the knife is held in an underhand grip (thrusting position). however. The Model RS1.Pg. When he contracts his grip and squeezes the trigger lever.Standard Hybrid. a suspect can "cock" the gun by relaxing his fingers so the trigger lever pops down from the underside of the handle. The muzzle is located in the guard. There are two models that come in three different versions -. which is the AOW (Any Other Weapon) version. gun barrel. The blade is made of 440C heat-treated high carbon stainless steel. cleaning and inspection of the firearm components. which was mentioned in a recent Crime Bulletin. (Global Research and Development) and is being promoted as the world's first knife to contain a working .22 caliber revolver within the grip. With one hand.and before you have a chance to react to the surprising discovery that what you thought was "just" a big knife in a suspect's hand is also a fully functional firearm. it does have a cartridge in the handle. meaning it is considered as a knife and not a firearm under the Bureau of Alcohol Tobacco and Firearms criteria. it is exempt from firearms restrictions. The non-gun version is the Model RS1N and is BATF-approved. 22. Hidden in the handle are a revolving cylinder. the gun fires. an assailant can discharge five cartridges in rapid succession before reloading . This weapon looks just like a knife.D. Therefore. The handle is hinged at the guard so its upper and lower sections can be pulled apart for easy loading. .A. England and Germany. The gun parts will also show up if xrayed. same shape. “Vehicle Shade Blowgun” Overall Length of the Weapon Front Red Sight and Attached Rear Folding Sight Rear Darts. same size. The gun phones are significantly heavier then real cell phones and do not operate or have lighted screens. ATF & Customs Service have all been briefed on it and expect it to appear in the U. The forward end of the darts had been filed to a sharp point and the rear end of the darts had been equipped with a yellow plastic chute to catch the air when blown. 9 CELLPHONE GUN At first sight this looks like a regular cell phone. same overall appearance. The guns are loaded by twisting the phone in half. under the keyboard.22 caliber pistol.Pg. They are being manufactured in Croatia and Yugoslavia and are sophisticated machines constructed to fit inside gutted cell phones. The rounds fit into the top of the phone under the readout screen and the lower half. shortly. the FBI. although no police agencies in the US have reported problems with it yet. The phone gun is capable of firing 4 rounds in quick succession with a touch of the otherwise standard keypad. but beneath the digital face lies a .S. The bullets fire through the antenna by pressing the keypad from numbers 5 to 8. . holds the firing pins. fully equipped blowgun was fashioned from a vehicle shade. The phone guns have turned up during drug raids in Amsterdam. One Exposed Dart and One Dart Placed In Chamber Rear to Front View from Mouthpiece with Rear Site Up This homemade 36-inch. The phone gun has been showing up in Europe and. Twenty metal spokes used to turn the shade hardware were converted into 4-inch metal darts. extremely rare item. the Army Plans & Training Officer for Fort Drum: Found at a Web auction with a starting bid of $1. exerts increased pressure on the trigger so it returns to it's forward position quicker – thus increasing the speed of fire when used correctly.Pg.995: "Shoots sub sonic 22 and is absolutely silent. in a nutshell. This unit is constructed well. designed by the great gun fairy for some gov agency somewhere. There are one or two units available. Fits neatly in a cigarette case. about the size of a lighter). Has a pull type pen gun (that is the small piece off of the box. MFG DAW. . 10 CIGARETTE CASE GUN The following came from Anthony Losada. " TRIGGER CONTROLLER This the called the “HELL FIRE TRIGGER SYSTEM” AKA: “Hell Storm 200” It can reportedly simulate automatic gun fire at a rate of 10 –15 rounds per second The hell fire system. The square box is the silencer. 22 CAL.357 rounds.Pg. MINI FIREARM This is called the DOWNSIZER WSP and is billed as the world’s smallest pistol. New Jersey in September of 2002. It is smaller than a playing card and fires either . 11 KNIFE/. It doubles as a . .45 ACP or . FIREARM COMBO This ‘knife’ was taken off a suicidal man in North Plainfield. Originally this combination weapon was sold as a novelty in the 1920’s through magazines such as Popular Mechanics. firearm.22 cal. NET. and comes in . The cost is from $310 to $350. .32 calibres. The company offers the device to any US Law Enforcement Officers as well as to any foreign countries who do not have laws banning it. WEAPONS WARNING Pen Gun This gun is commercially manufactured to look like a pen.Pg. They advertise that installation takes only 10 seconds and can turn any Glock or Beretta into a select fire machine pistol. The video on the website appears to back this claim. 12 SELECT FIRE CONVERSION DEVICE Those of you who have access to the Internet may want to check out FULLAUTOGLOCK. however it appears compliance is voluntary.25. . This company is offering what they bill as “The first true drop in select fire device for Glock handguns and Berettas 92 Series”. and they claim that no tools or gunsmithing ability is needed to make the conversion. and . It fires a single shot.22. 22 CAL PISTOL .aguilaammo.Pg.com. Texas for sale to the general public. of Helotes. According to the bulletin. The ammunition is available by dealers throughout the US and can be ordered over the internet at www. BRIEFCASE MODIFIED TO CONCEAL AND FIRE A RUGER . Mexico and is being imported into the US by Centurion Ordnance Inc. 13 ARMOR PIERCING AMMUNITION On December 30. 2002 the BLOC/HIDTA Watch Center received an Information Bulletin from the Nevada Department of Public Safety concerning a new type of ammunition known as AGUILA IQ which has been identified as being able to penetrate bullet-resistant vests. The ammunition is manufactured in Mexico under the AGUILA brand name by munitions manufacturer TECNOS of Cuernavaca. the Michigan State Police Ordnance Unit tested the ammo and found that it does penetrate police issued vests. . 14 MAG LIGHT CAPABLE OF FIRING A . Although the subject may not be within striking distance of the flashlight. New Mexico gun shop. and proper safety procedures should be followed when encountering subjects armed with such a weapon. The weapon is made by Ares Defense Systems. capable of firing a . Once the safety pin is pulled. Subjects in possession of such a device are required by federal law to have proper documentation of ownership. Pennsylvania and is considered an NFA (National Firearms Act) weapon. Among the items found was a fully functional Mag Light Flashlight. Tobacco and Firearms. much like a “zip gun” or tear gas gun. Officers should be aware that such a weapon exists. in Blacksburg. discharging the weapon through the end cap of the flashlight. officers may still be within effective firing distance of the shotgun. along with the Albuquerque Criminal Intelligence Unit recently served a search warrant at an Albuquerque. The flashlight functions by pulling back a spring-loaded firing pin.Pg. the operator pushes down on the firing lever.410 shotgun round.410 SHOTGUN ROUND The Bureau of Alcohol. Care should also be taken when finding such a weapon during a routine search in order to avoid accidentally discharging the firearm. Knives & Other Cutting Weapons . . Pennsylvania reported to the Calibrepress. When the head of the brush is removed.) the existence of this ‘oil tank knife’ that can be purchased to replace the dipstick on Harley Davidson motorcycles. etc. a pointed dagger made of hard plastic is revealed. The dipstick is located on the right side of the motorcycle just under the seat. This potential weapon can be easily overlooked.Pg. 15 MOTORCYCLE OIL TANK KNIFE An officer in Cumru Township. training. law updates. Be sure to closely inspect hairbrushes for removable heads. The model shown below is available for most Harley bikes and can be purchased on the internet. THE HAIRBRUSH DAGGER This "hairbrush" is sold as a personal defense tool.Com Newsline (a valuable website serving police agencies with information on weapons. according to the literature that comes with it. The device is also fully functional for producing a flame.Pg. at a store in Virginia. The officer conducted an independent experiment by taking it through airport security and found that it was NOT detectable by the x-ray machines. New Jersey Police Department recently discovered this switchblade/lighter on a shoplifter who had been arrested at a local mall. POLYMER PLASTIC KNIFE This is a HIGH-STRENGTH POLYMER KNIFE that was recently purchased by a police officer for $13. when pushed. . can be sharpened. During that incident the weapon was found after the suspect pulled the lighter from his pocket and asked the officer if he could have a cigarette. This innocent looking cigarette lighter knife was confiscated recently during an arrest by the Holyoke. 16 SWITCHBLADE LIGHTERS An officer on the Eatontown. Massachusetts Police Department. The device has a small silver button on the upper corner of the lighter and. The blade of the knife is reasonably sharp and has a strong point which. This is similar to a lighter/knife located on a subject during a traffic stop in another New Jersey town last winter. a 2-inch blade springs out and locks into position. 17 KEY KNIFE A Waterville.approximately 2. Indiana school teacher confiscated this "lipstick knife" from a 9-year-old girl in her class.Pg. THE LIPSTICK KNIFE An Indianapolis. however during a second search in the booking room the officer found this "key knife" hanging from a clip on the suspect’s belt. The lipstick knife is widely available through mail order catalogs. Maine police officer encountered a subject in February. Not extended. The subject fled when he saw the officer. but was located a short time later and arrested on several outstanding warrants as well as for BURGLARY TO A MOTOR VEHICLE & THEFT. 2002 after responding to a call from a local firefighter that a suspicious person was digging around in the donation dumpster of a nearby charity organization. The key-knife had a 1-inch blade. the weapon appears to be a regular key -. . which folds into the side of the key. No weapons were found during the initial pat down search.5 inches long. It seems the girl had brought it to school to "cut up" one of her friends. . The knife. is close to what could be described as a switchblade. It is available on the internet for $44. FOLDING KNIFE WITH PUSH BUTTON RELEASE This is a ‘TACTICAL FOLDING KNIFE’ equipped with a 420 stainless steel blade and a push button handle release.Pg. It reaches 8” overall length when opened and fits easily in an average size wallet. made in Argentina and Germany. although it is legal for law enforcement to carry. 18 BIKE SEAT KNIFE This "Bike Seat Dagger" was discovered by an officer on the New Haven. It is easily concealed when the seat post is clamped in place in the bike's vertical seat-post tube. Arizona. Connecticut PD after a suspected gangbanger abandoned his bicycle and fled during a street stop. The "dagger" consists of a 10-inch piece of solid steel. and.95 and has been brought to our attention by an Intelligence Officer at the ATF office in Phoenix. He advises the knife has a 3 ¼” long blade and is extremely well crafted. machined down to a spear-like point and then welded to the end of the bicycle seat post. can be purchased by anyone. Pg. 19 “Twine Knife” “Twine Knife” found by an officer with the New York State Department of Conservation. . stay alert to suspect’s hands and keep your eyes open for a “ring” that may really be a concealed knife. This knife is worn around a finger like a ring and can easily be concealed from your view. UMBRELLA DAGGER This fully functioning umbrella comes complete with a 12” dagger in the handle and is sold as a “personal protection device”. As always. It’s available through www.zippo.com/products/pocket/pocketknives/index. 20 MONEY CLIP KNIFE Please take a look at this money clip.html Anchorage.Pg. Alaska Airport Police advise the calculator/knife shown below was distributed by their local phone company as a ‘gift’ for new subscribers last year. Calculator Knife . It has also shown up in many other cities. RING KNIFE Source: MAGLOCLEN (Middle Atlantic Great Lakes Organized Crime Law Enforcement Network) & The Homeland Security Group This Officer Safety Item is a “Ring Knife”. The overall length is 3-1/2 inches with a 2-inch steel blade. The knife when cupped inside the hand could easily be mistaken for a regular ring worn on the finger.Pg. . Unlike some of these ‘self-defense’ weapons that are easily available through the internet and at flea markets. 21 COMB KNIFE This is yet another plastic weapon concealed as a comb. this one is made up of completely plastic components that would not show up on any security X-ray scanners. This item is sold with a sew-on leather sheath for the capability of greater concealment. Pg. The good part is that they are razorblade sharp and do not dull easily…. 22 CERAMIC KNIVES This is the latest thing in gourmet cooking – CERAMIC KNIVES. .the bad part is that they do not show up with security wands and metal detectors. They are now being sold over the Internet as well as on TV via the Home Shopping Network and QVC. They come in sizes ranging from 2” paring to 8” butcher knives. Pg. 23 KEY CHAIN FOLDING KNIFE Info courtesy of MAGLOCLEN (Middle Atlantic Great Lakes Organized Crime Law Enforcement Network) This is a photo of a key chain knife with a folding lock blade. When held properly. The blade locks into place and is two inches partially serrated. . it can be used like a trench knife. This knife was found at the Monterey Airport in California and is for sale commercially in many locations including sporting goods stores and on the internet. Unusual Hiding Places for Drugs/Weapons Etc. . VIDEO CAMERA HIDING PLACE On April 24th a Glendale. the cutout was in the shape of a Glock 22. During a consent search of the vehicle he located a full size “Sharp” camcorder on the rear passenger seat. As observed in the photo. The NBPD operates on what they call a ‘’Plus One” theory. believing that. a 9mm handgun and drug paraphernalia. but could easily be custom made with an razor knife to fit almost any handgun. it can be a prime spot to conceal drugs or weapons. 24 HANDGUN HIDEAWAY A police officer from the North Bend Police Department in Oregon discovered that a dictionary (or other large book) can house more than just words. A closer look at the camera revealed a fake videocassette had been placed in the camera and. The dictionary was positioned face up and directly behind the driver's seat so that it could be accessed quickly. The American Heritage Dictionary had been cut out to conceal a semi-automatic handgun. . California police officer made a traffic stop reference a registration violation. in the majority of incidents where substantial drugs or weapons are found in a vehicle or residence. This dictionary and handgun were located during search #2 after the first search had located 4 lbs. but would not be suspicious to anyone making a cursory visual check of the car’s contents.Pg. once it was removed. he found a fully loaded “Taurus” 9mm semi-automatic handgun with an altered serial number. of drugs. a second search will yield more contraband. Pg. The officers were told prior to the stop that the suspect had a gun.40 cal. (See the Calibrepress. The bottles break down into three separate pieces. handgun. .com website for additional photos and information on this item. a plastic scale. Other bottles found in California and New York contained other contraband. Once the magnet was in place and the glovebox was open. 25 HIDDEN COMPARTMENT IN CADILLAC Officers in Nevada discovered a unique method of concealment when they conducted a felony car stop recently. Inside one bottle found in California was a stash of six plastic Ziploc bags containing methamphetamine. the hidden compartment opened automatically by pushing down the tilt steering wheel adjuster. revealing a fully loaded Smith & Wesson . and a spoon. The concealed area is also large enough to hold a small weapon. with the top and bottom ones containing some water -while the center section (behind the label) could conceal a weapon or contraband. The stop was on a Kidnap suspect who was driving a 2000 Cadillac Seville STS. During a more extensive search the officers found two hinges directly below the steering wheel.) THREE-COMPARTMENT WATER BOTTLE Several law enforcement officers in Maine and other areas of the country have recently discovered this seemingly innocuous water bottle with a hollowed-out center chamber during searches of vehicles. but efforts to find or open a compartment were unsuccessful until the victim told them he had seen the suspect place a magnet on the dash and open the glove compartment door before opening the hidden door. These bottles can be bought at the local boutiques here in Brunswick (Maine). when they conducted the stop and took the suspect into custody they were unable to locate the firearm even though the victim had warned of a hidden compartment in the car. however. 26 PEPSI GUN LOCKER Police in Riley County. sturdy paperclips bent into improvised handcuff keys and a 3 1/4-in.at airport and courthouse security points. the phone is fully functional and will turn on when being tested .000 rounds of ammunition. razor-sharp single-edge blade that may have come from a wallpaper cutter. for example. The machine had been converted into a gun safe and concealed 17 firearms and over 4.Pg. . When the battery pack is in place.. Kansas were executing a narcotics search warrant on a residence when they discovered the Pepsi machine shown below. WORKING CELL PHONE HIDING HANDCUFF KEYS & RAZOR BLADES Secreted between the battery and the body of this Motorola cellular flip phone are 2 large. ) . imagine how much drugs or weapons would fit. woman was hidden in the cavity behind the dashboard. A search of the vehicle found a 135 lb. (If a full size woman could be smuggled in this hidden compartment. Suddenly a hand come out of the glove compartment producing the requested document which the driver then handed to the Inspector.Pg. 27 UTILIZING THE SPACE BETWEEN THE ENGINE AND THE DASHBOARD OF AN SUV A US Customs Primary Inspector asked the driver of the Chevy Suburban shown below for his registration. on August 30. one began to walk away towards a nearby hotel room. When Initially detaining the males for a possible vehicle burglary. He found that the back had a Velcro opening with an interior pocket where the suspect had concealed a loaded semiautomatic pistol. . He was carrying various items including a stuffed 14 inch “Cookie Monster” doll. A deputy checked the items and noticed that the doll felt unusually heavy. placing the items he was carrying on the ground.m. 28 GUN CONCEALED IN CHILD’ S TOY Los Angeles County Deputies from Industry Station stopped several males who appeared to be gang members at a Valinda hotel at 2 a.Pg. 2000. soles and sports pouches on sneakers and other footwear. The male was detained. HIDDEN POUCHES Several incident have been reported recently where contraband and/or weapons were discovered hidden in the arches. 29 COMMERCIALLY AVAILABLE BASEBALL CAP WITH CONCEALED COMPARTMENT An officer in Waterbury. During the arrest the suspect dropped the hat.” These concealment caps are created by an outfit called Hawaiian Island Creations and distributed by various beachwear shops around the country. In fact. “And other than the obvious weight. “It sealed just fine. . Please keep this particular hat in mind to help remind you to stay alert for unusual bulkiness and to check for hidden compartments. Vermont recently arrested a subject who was wearing this hat. worn by a suspect who was concealing marijuana inside. Once the officer pulled back the sweat band he found a concealed velcro closure and a hidden compartment.” said the officer. Once at the station the officer took a closer look and when he started feeling around the inside of the hat he noticed that the head/sweat band area where the bill meets the front of the cap was thicker than it should be.25 handgun. “But it could have easily concealed plenty of contraband.” Or worse. razor blades or cuff keys.and tested the capacity of the concealed compartment with his own Beretta .” stated the officer. “The compartment was empty.Pg. a knife or handgun. however the arresting officer picked it back up and placed it on his head. another officer from Carlisle (PA) PD also recently encountered one of these caps. it was not noticeable at all while the hat was being worn. The hats bear the Hawaiian Island Creations logo on the front. This hidden pouch could be used for concealing anything from a controlled substance to a weapon. The pouch is closed with Velcro and is accessible through the inseam area. They were opened and found to contain hockey bags filled with marihuana. His paperwork showed that he was delivering trees to the US eastern states yet the driver claimed to be en route to Toronto. was destined to the Toronto area with a load of cedar trees. . California. The crates were all sealed and caulked to fully seal in the marihuana odor. He also admitted to be carrying a few crates of freight for his boss but did not have any shipping papers for them. Canada: These pants and shorts for men and women are sold over the Internet by Seedless.Pg. An “S” on the front left pocket and “Seedless” sewn on the waistband over the rear right pocket (similar to jean labels) can identify the shorts and pants. a company located in San Diego. The driver was nervous yet overly friendly.com/frames. Their web site address is http://www. stopped a 1998 Peterbilt tractor-trailer at the West Hawk Lake DOT weigh scales. near the Ontario border. A total of 584 lbs of marihuana was found in12 hockey bags. OF MARIJUANA On March 15th. If a person is encountered wearing these shorts. caution should be exercised as a weapon could be concealed in the pouch. 2003.html. Canada RCMP. The lone male driver from Abbotsford. The driver denied any knowledge of the crates contents. CONCEALMENT JEANS Info provided by the Regional Security & Emergency Preparedness Inspector in Ottawa. 30 HIDING PLACE FOR 584 LBS. BC.seedlessclothing. Falcon Lake. Maine Police Department: The following items are being sold at local gift shops.Pg. 31 SAFE CANS AND CANDLES FOR HIDING GOODIES Source: Brunswick. . (However. The United States Custom Service at JFK Airport. The package was seized by the United States Custom Service in Memphis. Department of Justice.. NEW YORK Source: The Drug Enforcement Administration Office of Forensic Sciences. TENNESSEE Source: The Drug Enforcement Administration Office of Forensic Sciences. seized the wheels after being removed from a suitcase from a passenger arriving on a flight from Colombia. Washington. .5 grams. combined net mass 387. clothing. New York. Department of Justice. and GC/MS confirmed hashish. etc. DC: The DEA South Central Laboratory (Dallas.Pg. Each wheel contained a black plastic bag. Over the past few years. Mississippi. then covered with tightly wound thread (see Photos 3 and 4). 32 HASHISH SMUGGLED INSIDE SPOOLS OF THREAD IN MEMPHIS. FT-IR. the Northeast Laboratory has received a wide variety of exhibits seized by Customs agents at JFK Airport. Texas) recently received a package containing four spools of white thread containing packages of suspected hashish. This is believed to be the first exhibit of this type ever submitted to the South Central Laboratory. Analysis by GC-FID. DC: The DEA Northeast Laboratory (New York. INTELLIGENCE ALERT . The THC content was not quantitated. Information. including luggage handles. Disassembly of each spool revealed a rectangular strip. and GCMSD confirmed 89 percent heroin HCl. after X-ray analysis indicated an anomalous mass under the threading of each spool. Modified Duquenois-Levine. Analysis by microscopic examination. New York) recently received an exhibit consisting of twelve black suitcase wheels containing suspected heroin (see two of these wheels in Photo). suitcase liners. shoes. combined net mass 795. Tennessee.9 grams. in which heroin had been concealed. which had been wrapped around the spool canister. there was no apparent deformation of the threading on the spools. packaged in brown tape. Information.) The exhibits were submitted to the laboratory after a controlled delivery in Picayune. which contained chunks of light brown powder.HEROIN IN SUITCASE WHEELS AT JFK AIRPORT. Washington. Florida. New Mexico. from Albuquerque. 33 COCAINE IN AUTO BATTERIES NEW MEXICO STATE POLICE SEIZES 44 POUNDS OF COCAINE FROM A RESERVE GAS TANK LOCATED IN THE BED OF A PICKUP TRUCK Source: New Mexico State Police: On April 2.Pg. Mora discovered a false hidden compartment within a auxiliary gas tank located in the bed of the 1997 Dodge truck. Point of contact is Sgt. Sgt. The driver was nervous and gave conflicting information. After obtaining consent to search. the New Mexico State Police stopped to assist a motorist on IH-40 in New Mexico with a flat tire. 2003. Rudy Mora at New Mexico State Police/Canine Unit (505) 841-9207 . Inside the compartment was 44 pounds of cocaine. The driver was en route to Miami. agents discovered a hidden compartment within the frame revealing a Smith & Wesson . additional weapons and ammunition were seized. After examining the picture frame. Special Agents from California Department of Justice. for an Armed Prohibited Person. served a Search Warrant at a residence in Compton. NEW AND BETTER HIDING PLACES Info courtesy of MAGLOCLEN (Middle Atlantic Great Lakes Organized Crime Law Enforcement Network): Below are photos reference a seizure last month at Peace Bridge Traffic in Fort Erie. the subject was taken inside the house and asked where the firearm was located. Orange County Firearms Division. Upon further search by agents. 2003. The subject was asked if there were anymore firearms and he then pointed to another picture in the same room. The agents escorted him to one of the bedrooms where the subject pointed to a picture above the bed.38 revolver loaded with live ammunition. a . Ontario Canada during a vehicle stop . . Agents made contact with a subject who was questioned about firearms listed in his possession that were identified in the Automated Firearm System (AFS).Pg.357 revolver was discovered in a similar manner also with live ammunition. A TEC 9 machine pistol and 110 grams of weed were found under the back seat in the hollowed out foam. After the residence was secured. 34 PICTURE FRAME HIDDEN COMPARTMENTS On January 15. Another firearm. California. visit the manufacturer’s website at http://www.asp .paceedwards. They could be reaching for a firearm. 35 SUN VISOR RIFLE RACK Patrol officers should use caution approaching SUV’s and Pick-Up trucks during traffic stops. The below illustrated rifle rack is made by Pace Edwards and is available for sale to the public.Pg.com/si_ri. where the driver or front passenger has his/her hands over their heads in the area of the sun visors. For further information on the rifle rack. 6 ounces of heroin in the headliner of a semi tractor. The substance was located in the headliner in the sleeper berth. however. The vehicle was traveling south on I-64 without a trailer (bobtail). He would not sign a written consent to search. The operator was nervous and gave verbal consent to search the vehicle. Testing indicated that the substance was heroin. however this unit is not familiar with the form it is shaped into. he did initial the written consent to search form indicating that he had been given verbal consent. 36 HEROIN HIDDEN IN SEMI-TRACTOR HEADLINER Source: From the Kentucky Motor Vehicle Enforcement Drug Interdiction Unit: On May 23. .Pg. Anyone familiar with this form of heroin which has been turned into pellets is asked to contact Off. Shannon Chelf at 502-564-4603. 2003 a member of the Kentucky MVEDIU located 6. Explosives . A search of the Internet revealed similar bomb reports made to law enforcement across the country. (Editorial comment by MACGLOCLEN Analyst Mark Smith . Law enforcement should be aware of these occurrences and of the possibility that. 37 AMMUNITION + BATTERIES = TROUBLE SOURCE: MAGLOCLEN (Mid Atlantic Great Lakes Organized Crime Law Enforcement Network): Two incidents have been reported to the FBI Firearms Training Unit within the past year wherein Agents combined loose. These "soda bottle bombs" are being placed in mailboxes in order to produce explosions. etc.g. because of their small size. gun case." using a two-liter plastic soda bottle filled a quarter of the way with muriatic acid and aluminum foil strips dropped inside.) The resulting detonation caused the cartridge case(s) to rupture. MURIATIC ACID USED IN IMPROVISED EXPLOSIVE DEVICES A number of incidents have recently been reported in Florida. (See below picture). . A variation of this recipe may have been used in all of the above mentioned incidents.I am guessing that what they mean and do not make clear here is when one end of a cartridge touches a positive terminal end and the other end touches the negative terminal of a different battery. When the cartridges were positioned so as to contact both battery terminals. pieces of metal. For safety purposes it is suggested all ammo be stored properly. sending metal fragments and case components (case. one or more cartridges detonated. then an electric spark may result with the consequence being the detonation of the bullets powder. these explosives could be placed in areas other than mailboxes. bullet. unfired ammunition in the same storage compartment (e. carry bag. (Yes. and nails. in explosive devices.Pg.) The search also revealed a simple recipe for a "soda bottle bomb. and powder particles) in all directions that were potentially capable of causing injury and/or damage. unpackaged.) with batteries from a flashlight or handy-talkie. When combined with strips of aluminum in a two-liter soda bottle the acid reacts and builds gas pressure inside the bottle until an explosion occurs. Bombs found in the California area also contained shards of glass. pocket. primer. commonly used to remove chlorine and fungus from pool walls. Maryland and California regarding the use of muriatic acid. even here in Brunswick. 5 volt or AA batteries. were seized on two separate occasions from passengers at the Boston. TATP. . can be added to the inside of the book. the igniter can be replaced with an Electric Blasting Cap (EBC) along with a small amount of C-4. these devices are considered “infernal machines” and are a felony to possess. the book could easily be transformed into an explosive device. The explosive triacetone triperoxide (TATP). If these modifications are made. Although. which have been tweaked to create a fire. The books are hollow inside and contain a Bunsen Burner igniter which is powered by two 1.Pg. These books.Logan International Airport. which is commonly known as acetone peroxide. is one of the most sensitive explosives known to us. the book then bursts into flames. 38 BURNING BOOK The Massachusetts State Police recently reported that books. Information originally published by the Massachusetts State Police and re-published by the PSA Unit. which is based on the unstable peroxide group of compounds. When the book is closed and the igniter button is pressed. and there was no criminal intent on the part of either of the passengers that were found with the books. Or. The books also contain an oil lamp wick held in a tin pan that is soaked with lighter fluid.” can be purchased at magic stores and over the Internet for about $65. in Massachusetts. The books can become very dangerous if certain parts and chemicals are replaced with others. called the “Burning Bible” or the “Hot Book. These books are intended to be used as a magic trick. Miscellaneous Items of Interest to Law Enforcement Officers . 000 volts. Primarily sold for self-defense. “The No-Contact Jacket is a wearable defensive jacket created to aid women in their struggle for protection from violence. One model in particular is the MTD-125. including security officers. 39 ELECTRIC JACKET This Officer Safety item is an electric jacket. This exo-electric armor prevents any person from unauthorized contact with the wearer's body. electric arcs and popping noises are produced as a deterrent (see red circle). For greater details on this product visit: http://www. advises this CELLULAR PHONE STUN GUN is available on various commercial Internet sites for purchase by the general public. Once activated. (The stun gun will NOT function as an operable cell phone. which control voluntary muscle movement.no-contact.Pg. According to the advertisement.000 volts of low amperage electric current pulses just below the surface shell of the entire jacket. It is designed to look just like a cell phone and includes a safety lock. When activated by the wearer.) .000 volts through it’s antenna. in Taiwan and has an output of up to 180. which is boasted as the advanced new product of 2002 by Motedo. Co. The jacket marketed as the “No-Contact Jacket” is capable of emitting 80. Law Enforcement and Security Professionals should be aware of items like these when dealing with suspects. The neuromuscular system would be overwhelmed causing disorientation and loss of balance to occur and of course pain. The company promotes the device as an effective defense for anyone. The jacket is armed by a key lock and activated by a hand switch (see yellow circle).com/ CELLULAR PHONE STUN GUN Calibrepress. a website that tracks concealed or unusual weapons the police should be aware of. If an assailant were to grab hold of the wearer the high voltage-shocking exterior would interrupt their neurological impulses. 80. NEW WEAPON TO WATCH FOR : THE"BLOODSUCKING PEN” Remove the cap of this ordinary looking pen and you're looking at a SERIOUSLY dangerous weapon specifically designed to drain blood very quickly. Although designed as a last-ditch backup weapon for police officers by a Minneapolis cop and sales are limited to LEOs and military special forces personnel. in shoes or attached to the inside of belts. Originally manufactured for use by officers or prison personnel should they be taken hostage. these keys.Pg. waistbands or ballcaps. can be easily hidden under watches. Its shape is designed to aggravate the entrance wound and expedite blood loss. which are suspended in a quarter-sized plastic or metal ring. The pen's hollow titanium tube/blade is cut at an angle for quick and deep skin penetration. Designed specifically for effective concealment. Preferred targets are eyes and ear canals but the "blade" is actually long enough to penetrate a lung or your heart. 40 COVERT CUFF KEY This easy to conceal handcuff key was found recently on a suspect in New Jersey. They are fully functional and can be quickly snapped out for use. . The Calibrepress Newsline and the manufacturer both feel you need to be aware of this weapon in case one were to accidentally and unexpectedly end up in the wrong hands. it is now being found on civilians. MAGIC MARKER – POT PIPE An officer at the Brunswick Maine Police Department Took this marker/pot pipe off a kid during a probation check last October. In spite of being converted to a pot pipe – this marker actually worked! .Pg. It was later learned that prisoners have been sharing information that a properly applied seat belt can break handcuff chains. The damage shown here was gained with only moderate effort and the highest risk is when prisoners are handcuffed in the front. After his delivery to the jail it appeared as though the seat belt had been tampered with. Please keep in mind how resourceful people can be in hiding weapons and contraband. 41 USE OF CRUISER SEATBELT TO BREAK HANDCUFF CHAIN A Tallahassee. Florida patrol officer observed a prisoner moving about suspiciously in the back seat of the patrol vehicle while handcuffed. Pg 42 CAT HEAD KEY CHAIN This key chain is currently being sold on the Internet as a legitimate self defense tool. •Uses one 9-volt alkaline battery. •8 inches long (a second model is 16 ½ inches long) Sold thru the Internet at $50.00 . Flashlight Stun Gun This handy little flashlight is also a 130 db alarm and an 80. When searching suspects please stay alert to keychains shaped like this and don’t disregard it as a simple ‘key holder’.000 volt stun baton. •The body is made of fiberglass reinforced plastic. Below are an array of ‘pens’ shown first closed. All four corners and sides are razor sharp. recently found a unique weapon on a student at their Junior High School. .Pg. RAZOR SHARP PLAYING CARDS The Pierce County Sheriff’s Department in Washington State. A check of the internet found these razor THROWING CARDS can be bought through martial arts supply companies in groups of 5 for about $30. ice picks and aerosol spray apparatus. 43 PENS THAT AREN’T FOR WRITING Pens can be another source of danger. then open to reveal knives. When the officer lightly threw it at a board – it stuck in about a quarter of an inch. The card (shown here) is made of metal and is about the size of a playing card. Pg. 44 MORE INTERNET GOODIES PEPPER SPRAY RING COP KILLER GANG ALERT . In the closed position it is impossible to see that the tongue is actually a handcuff key.com site wrote in reference to this easily available belt buckle. Further investigation disclosed that this “safety pin” was devised for opening handcuffs. 45 HIDDEN HANDCUFF KEYS Many subscribers to the Calibrepress. These devices are apparently easily available. The tip of the pin section was bent to a 90 degree angle. With only a short time to practice. It fits any standard 1 ½” belt and has been sold on Ebay as well as other websites. almost all handcuffs could be opened in seconds. A search of the arrestee disclosed a heavy gauge wire “safety pin” in the arrestee's pocket. Recently Illinois officers arrested a male subject for narcotics violations. .Pg. “After 15 years in the VIN plate market. Intelligence Unit): Recently. Next. we have mastered methods for reproducing the VIN plate better than anyone in this industry.Pg.vin-tags. officers from the Portland. 4 pounds of chocolate containing flakes of psilocybin mushrooms. . Oregon Police Bureau (via the Maryland State Police. The web page quotes. which had been laced with ground-up psilocybin mushrooms. Once the chocolate was cooled. The police surmised that the mushrooms were ground in the food processor. Oregon Police Bureau’s Drugs and Vice Division executed search warrants for drugs at a private residence.php. The officers seized approximately ten pounds of ground psilocybin mushrooms.(I-451): The web site below is offering vehicle identification plates and stickers for any VIN anyone is looking for. regular chocolate was melted and mixed with the mushrooms and then poured into the different molds. being manufactured on the premises. a food processor.” The web site is http://www. It doesn’t appear that there is any type of qualifier that these plates/stickers are for “entertainment” only. VIN serial numbers are no longer out of reach of the general public and completely accessible through our website. 46 VIN TAGS FOR SALE Source: Colorado Division of Gaming. officers discovered evidence of chocolate candy. . and a 25 pound box of A’peels brand chocolates. numerous types of plastic chocolate molds. CHOCOLATE MUSHROOMS From the Portland.com/products. During the search of the residence. it was wrapped in tin foil and then distributed via different package delivery services. Law Enforcement should be mindful of the potential for concealed weapons such as this. for absorption through the skin or lips. The set (shown here) comes with 5 sharpened spikes and could easily be concealed in the sleeve of a windbreaker or Sports Team jacket. ingested. Customs: Recent intelligence on Guam reveals that methamphetamine are being dissolved into bottles of "ENERVON C" vitamin syrup to avoid detection by Customs officials. "ENERVON C" Can be found in the Philippines and other areas in Asia. The bottles were chosen as a concealment method because the seals can be removed and replaced without appearing to be tampered with. With the large number of military personnel returning to the states from this area of the world. . A long sleeve coat may be out of place during the summer months. it is a fair assumption that this method of concealing the drugs will also show up stateside. smoked. The spikes are 6 inches long and made of hardened steel for maximum durability. METHAMPHETAMINES IN VITAMIN BOTTLES Info courtesy of U. NINJA THROWING SPIKES Info courtesy of MAGLOCLEN (Middle Atlantic Great Lakes Organized Crime Law Enforcement Network): These items are marketed as. indicating the potential for concealment.S. placed under the tongue. injected? In each occasion the substance was packaged in a "zip-loc" bag.Pg. They include an arm sheath made of heavy-duty black webbing and two elastic velcro bands to attach to the users’ arm. Officers should be aware that the substance could also be packaged in a lip balm container. The intended application for the jelly is unknown. “Ninja Throwing Spikes”. 47 PETROLEUM JELLY BASED METHAMPHETAMINES Info courtesy of MAGLOCLEN (Middle Atlantic Great Lakes Organized Crime Law Enforcement Network): Officers in Colorado have had problems reference a substance resembling Vaseline Petroleum Jelly which field-tested positive for the presence of meth on two separate occasions. The substance could create a risk to officers conducting searches through transdermal absorption.