NYPD Detectives and Their Guns: A Reality Check

It's a common scene on TV shows featuring police work: detectives casually leave their loaded pistols in their desks. But is this actually a realistic practice or a dramatic licence taken by television writers?

Practicality and Reality

Putting a loaded gun in an unlocked drawer at work is a risky move. Imagine the scenario where you're not paying attention, the drawer remains unlocked, and any visitor can access your weapon. This is a practice that most experienced officers and seasoned detectives would advise against.

One former detective shares, 'When I started working in my department, I put my gun in the top drawer of my desk in the morning. By the end of the day, I took it out and put it in the locker. Even though I didn’t always carry it on patrol, there was no need to leave it unattended in a drawer.' This practice surely reflects a more careful and secure approach to gun storage.

On-Set vs. Reality

TV shows take dramatic license to make the story more exciting. However, these shows often leave out practical details that would make the practice more realistic. For example, instead of a detective's weapon being stored in a drawer, it's more common to see them with a shoulder holster or a holster on their belt.

According to Vincent Beers, a typical patrolman will carry their firearm openly, strapped to their body. Detectives, who spend most of their time sitting at desks, may use shoulder holsters or other methods that keep the weapon out of sight while still providing easy access when necessary.

Standard Practices in Police Stations

In many police stations, the commonly accepted practice is to store firearms in designated lockers. When an officer leaves their station for an interview or any other reason, they take the key with them. This ensures that the weapon is always with the officer and prevents unauthorized access.

This standard practice is even more crucial in smaller squad rooms, as seen on shows like Barney Miller. A manageable-sized squad room with a holding cage can make a dangerous situation worse if a suspect gains access to a weapon left unattended.

The risk was starkly illustrated by an incident in the mid-1980s involving an agency in Michigan or Minnesota. An unattended weapon led to a serious accident, where the suspect managed to fire two shots, killing a photocopier and a coffee maker. The case underscores the danger of leaving weapons accessible.

Pushing for Safety and Discipline

Despite the risk, there are officers who still store their guns in desk drawers. However, this practice should be discouraged, especially in agencies with strict policies. In one instance, an agent was disciplined after leaving his pistol in his desk when pursuing a suspect. He was fortunate to have access to a shotgun, but such incidents highlight the importance of secure gun management.

So, while it’s understandable that some officers might leave their guns in drawers for convenience, it’s crucial to understand the potential risks. Most police stations have sophisticated security protocols to ensure the safety of both the officers and the community. These practices are not just about TV drama but about real-life safety measures that must be adhered to.