Monona police recommend adding grappler device to pursuit policy; council to consider authorization

Monona Police Chief (name not given in the record) asked the City Council on Nov. 17 to add a rear-axle entanglement tool—commonly called a grappler—to the department's pursuit intervention policy, saying the device provides an alternative to PIT maneuvers and spike strips and can reduce crash risk and injuries.

"The grappler is proven to reduce crashes and injuries," the Police Chief said, describing the device as a front-mounted mechanism that deploys a tethered net to capture a fleeing vehicle's rear tire and slow it safely. He told councilors the city attorney had reviewed the proposal and found that implementing the device would not "increase the city's liability."

Why it matters: Councilors weighing the change asked how the device would be used, its limits and its cost. The chief said each unit costs about $5,000 to buy and install and each replacement net (a one-time-use webbing) runs about $400; the manufacturer offers a limited refurbishment credit when used nets are returned. Training options include sending one officer for manufacturer training or arranging on-site instructor travel; the department planned to train several officers rather than an entire crew.

Council questions focused on practical constraints and safeguards. Members pressed the chief about: deployment speeds (the chief said agency practice and manufacturers' guidance commonly cap effective deployment near 75 mph), winter and icy conditions (the chief said some deployments may not be advisable in poor traction and described potential de-icing solutions and training adjustments), and vehicle compatibility (the grappler currently mounts only to specific truck/SUV chassis such as F-150, Expedition, Chevy Tahoe/Silverado platforms).

The chief said initial implementation would use asset-forfeiture funds and existing equipment/training lines; he asked authorization to equip a single F-150 initially to evaluate performance and to train officers. He emphasized the device is intended as a tool within existing pursuit policy, not as authorization to expand pursuits.

Concerns and context: Council members noted social-media footage showing rare but dramatic damage in some deployments (including a case in Livonia, Mich., where a rear axle separated). The chief acknowledged such outcomes but said agencies that deploy the device report overwhelmingly positive safety results and that many pursuits already leave vehicles badly damaged by spike strips or other tactics. Members also raised questions about who would be liable for damage to stolen vehicles and how often reload costs would affect operating budgets.

What's next: The chief asked the council to authorize deployment on one vehicle and to allow the department to return with contract/training details and any operating-fund request in the next budget cycle. No formal council vote on authorizing permanent use of the device was recorded at the Nov. 17 session; the item will proceed for further review and potential placement in the operating budget.