Baltimore Police to Adopt New Arrest Technique for Safety

The department is rolling out the SafeWrap System, a nationally recognized restraint method originally developed for mental health crisis management.

Apr. 10, 2026 at 8:34pm

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An extreme close-up of a police handcuff against a stark black background, the metal surface reflecting the harsh light of the camera flash, conceptually illustrating the need for safer arrest techniques.The new SafeWrap System aims to provide a safer alternative to traditional arrest methods, reducing the risk of injury for both officers and suspects.Baltimore Today

The Baltimore Police Department is implementing a new arrest technique this week aimed at improving safety for both officers and the public. The department is adopting the SafeWrap System, a nationally recognized restraint method originally developed to safely manage mental health crises in healthcare settings. Internationally recognized Brazilian jiu-jitsu instructors Rener Gracie and Ryron Gracie will lead the BPD's first SafeWrap training class next week, after which the department will host a public demonstration to showcase the new technique.

Why it matters

The new SafeWrap System is designed to provide a safer alternative to traditional arrest methods, reducing the risk of injury for both officers and suspects. This comes as law enforcement agencies across the country face increased scrutiny over use-of-force incidents, making the adoption of de-escalation tactics a priority for many departments.

The details

The SafeWrap System utilizes specialized restraint techniques that allow officers to safely control and transport individuals without the need for physical strikes or other forceful measures. The method has already been adopted by major agencies like the Los Angeles and New York City police departments.

  • The Baltimore Police Department is rolling out the new SafeWrap System this week.
  • The department will host its first SafeWrap training class for officers next week.
  • Following the training, BPD will hold a public demonstration to officially launch the new arrest technique.

The players

Baltimore Police Department

The law enforcement agency for the city of Baltimore, Maryland.

Rener Gracie

Internationally recognized Brazilian jiu-jitsu instructor who will lead the BPD's SafeWrap training.

Ryron Gracie

Internationally recognized Brazilian jiu-jitsu instructor who will lead the BPD's SafeWrap training.

Los Angeles Police Department

A major law enforcement agency that has already adopted the SafeWrap System.

New York City Police Department

A major law enforcement agency that has already adopted the SafeWrap System.

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What they’re saying

“The SafeWrap System provides a much safer alternative to traditional arrest methods, reducing the risk of injury for both officers and suspects.”

— Rener Gracie, Brazilian jiu-jitsu instructor

“We're excited to bring this nationally recognized technique to the Baltimore Police Department and demonstrate its benefits to the community.”

— Ryron Gracie, Brazilian jiu-jitsu instructor

What’s next

Following the initial SafeWrap training session next week, the Baltimore Police Department will host a public demonstration to officially launch the new arrest technique and showcase its benefits.

The takeaway

The adoption of the SafeWrap System by the Baltimore Police Department represents a proactive step towards improving safety and de-escalation tactics in law enforcement. As agencies nationwide face increased scrutiny over use-of-force incidents, this new restraint method could serve as a model for other departments looking to prioritize the wellbeing of both officers and the public.