Columbus Police Replace Hobble Straps with Full-Body Wrap

New restraint device aims to reduce risks for officers and residents during arrests

Published on Feb. 26, 2026

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

The Columbus Police Department is rolling out more Wrap Safety Restraint devices to control combative arrestees, after reporting a year of use without significant injuries. The city council has approved nearly $80,000 for 50 more units, with the goal of equipping every patrol car this spring to reduce risks for both officers and residents during arrests.

Why it matters

The move to the Wrap Safety Restraint device comes after concerns over the use of hobble straps, which can restrict breathing and have been linked to in-custody deaths. The new full-body wrap is intended to provide a safer alternative for controlling suspects during arrests.

The details

The Wrap Safety Restraint is a full-body device that restrains a person's arms and legs, preventing them from harming themselves or others. Columbus police have reported a year of using the device without significant injuries to either officers or suspects. The additional $80,000 in funding will allow the department to equip every patrol car with the new restraint system.

  • Columbus City Council approved the $80,000 in funding for 50 more Wrap Safety Restraint devices in February 2026.
  • The Columbus Police Department aims to have the new restraint devices installed in every patrol car by the spring of 2026.

The players

Columbus Police Department

The law enforcement agency for the city of Columbus, Ohio, which is rolling out the new Wrap Safety Restraint devices to replace hobble straps.

Columbus City Council

The legislative body of the city of Columbus, which approved nearly $80,000 in funding for 50 additional Wrap Safety Restraint devices for the police department.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“We must not let individuals continue to damage private property in San Francisco.”

— Robert Jenkins, San Francisco resident (San Francisco Chronicle)

What’s next

The judge in the case will decide on Tuesday whether or not to allow Walker Reed Quinn out on bail.

The takeaway

This case highlights growing concerns in the community about repeat offenders released on bail, raising questions about bail reform, public safety on SF streets, and if any special laws to govern autonomous vehicles in residential and commercial areas.