TOP SECRET//SCI//NOFORN

DEPARTMENT OF DEFENSE

OFFICE OF THE SECRETARY OF DEFENSE

THE PENTAGON

WASHINGTON, DC 20301-1000

MEMORANDUM FOR THE SECRETARY OF DEFENSE

SUBJECT: Long-Term Strategy for Managing Superhuman Threats (U)

(TS//SCI//NF) Purpose: To outline a proposed long-term strategy for managing the potential threats posed by superhumans, particularly with regard to the development of powers that render individuals immune to conventional firearms.

(TS//SCI//NF) Background:

a. The emergence of superhumans has presented a significant challenge for law enforcement and military forces in terms of neutralizing errant individuals who pose a threat to public safety or national security.

b. Recent analysis suggests that the use of firearms against superhumans may inadvertently lead to the development of powers that render individuals immune to conventional firearms.

c. If left unchecked, this trend could lead to a dangerous escalation in the level of force required to neutralize superhuman threats, potentially leading to the development of even more dangerous counter-powers.

(TS//SCI//NF) Proposed Strategy:

a. Over the next two decades, the Department of Defense, in coordination with other federal agencies and state and local governments, should implement a gradual reduction in the prevalence of firearms in American society.

b. This reduction should be achieved through a combination of policy changes, including stricter regulation of civilian firearm ownership, buyback programs, and a shift in law enforcement and military tactics to emphasize less lethal means of force.

c. The ultimate goal of this strategy is to minimize the likelihood that superhumans will develop powers that render them immune to conventional firearms, thus preserving the ability of law enforcement and military forces to effectively respond to superhuman threats.

(TS//SCI//NF) Implementation:

a. The implementation of this strategy will require close coordination between the Department of Defense, the Department of Justice, the Department of Homeland Security, and other relevant federal agencies.

b. A task force should be established to oversee the development and implementation of specific policies and programs to achieve the goals of this strategy.

c. The task force should also be responsible for monitoring the effectiveness of these policies and programs over time and making recommendations for adjustments as necessary.

(TS//SCI//NF) Classification: Due to the sensitive nature of this strategy and its potential impact on public opinion and civil liberties, it is recommended that this memorandum and related materials be classified at the TOP SECRET//SCI//NOFORN level.

(U) Recommendation: That you approve the proposed long-term strategy for managing superhuman threats and authorize the establishment of a task force to oversee its implementation.

William S. Cohen

Secretary of Defense

Attachment:

As stated

CLASSIFIED BY: OSD

REASON: 1.4(a), (d), (g)

DECLASSIFY ON: 20250415

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UNCLASSIFIED//FOR OFFICIAL USE ONLY

DEPARTMENT OF JUSTICE

OFFICE OF THE ATTORNEY GENERAL

WASHINGTON, DC 20530

MEMORANDUM FOR ALL UNITED STATES ATTORNEYS, STATE AND LOCAL LAW ENFORCEMENT OFFICIALS, AND NATIONAL GUARD COMMANDERS

FROM: John Ashcroft, Attorney General

SUBJECT: Interim Guidelines for Responding to Individuals with Enhanced Durability Capabilities

DATE: June 15, 2002

The emergence of individuals with enhanced durability capabilities presents new challenges for law enforcement and public safety officials at all levels of government. While the vast majority of these individuals are law-abiding citizens, we must be prepared to respond effectively and appropriately when an individual with these capabilities poses a threat to public safety.

The purpose of this memorandum is to provide interim guidelines and recommendations for responding to individuals with enhanced durability capabilities. These guidelines are based on the best available information and will be updated as new technologies and techniques become available.

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Assess the Threat Level:

When confronted with an individual with enhanced durability capabilities, the first priority should be to assess the threat level posed by the individual. Factors to consider include:

a. The nature and extent of the individual's capabilities

b. The individual's apparent intent and demeanor

c. The presence of weapons or other objects that could be used to cause harm

d. The potential for collateral damage or risk to bystanders

Based on this assessment, law enforcement officials should determine the appropriate level of response.

Prioritize De-Escalation and Containment:

Whenever possible, the primary goal should be to de-escalate the situation and contain the individual without resorting to the use of force. Techniques to consider include:

a. Verbal communication and negotiation

b. Establishing a perimeter and evacuating bystanders

c. Deploying non-lethal riot control agents, such as tear gas or pepper spray

d. Using physical barriers and containment devices, such as nets, rapid-hardening foam agents, and reinforced restraints

Employ Sensory Overload Tactics:

Individuals with enhanced durability capabilities may be more susceptible to sensory overload tactics. Techniques to consider include:

a. Deploying high-intensity strobe lights or other visual distractions

b. Using loud, disorienting sounds, such as flashbang grenades or ADADs (Amplified Directed Acoustic Devices)

c. Deploying malodorants, asphyxiants, or other noxious substances to disorient the individual

Coordinate Multi-Agency Response:

Responding to individuals with enhanced durability capabilities may require a coordinated, multi-agency response. Law enforcement officials should establish clear lines of communication and protocols for inter-agency coordination, including:

a. Establishing a unified command structure and chain of command

b. Sharing intelligence and real-time information about the individual and the situation

c. Coordinating tactical responses and resource deployment

d. Establishing a joint information center to manage public communications

Provide Specialized Training:

Law enforcement officials at all levels should receive specialized training on responding to individuals with enhanced durability capabilities. This training should cover:

a. Identifying and assessing enhanced durability capabilities

b. De-escalation and containment techniques

c. Use of specialized equipment and tactics

d. Multi-agency coordination and communication

Conduct After-Action Reviews:

Following any incident involving an individual with enhanced durability capabilities, law enforcement officials should conduct a thorough after-action review to identify lessons learned and areas for improvement. This review should include:

a. A detailed timeline of the incident and response

b. An assessment of the effectiveness of tactics and equipment used

c. Identification of any gaps or weaknesses in training or coordination

d. Recommendations for improving future responses

The results of these after-action reviews should be shared with other law enforcement agencies and used to update training and response protocols as needed.

In conclusion, responding to individuals with enhanced durability capabilities requires a coordinated, multi-faceted approach that prioritizes de-escalation, containment, and the judicious use of specialized tactics and equipment. By working together and sharing information and resources, law enforcement officials at all levels can help ensure the safety and security of our communities in the face of this emerging challenge.

The guidelines and recommendations in this memorandum are effective immediately and will remain in effect until superseded by future guidance. Questions or concerns regarding these guidelines should be directed to the Office of the Attorney General.

John Ashcroft

Attorney General

UNCLASSIFIED//FOR OFFICIAL USE ONLY