Photo by Gene Gallin on Unsplash

Due to expected rainy weather and scheduling issues, Richmond’s first annual ‘Bola-Hoop’ has been postponed to later this month.

The event, which was originally scheduled for this Saturday in Monroe Park, would have featured bola throwing and hoop dancing
While most people around the world are familiar with hoops, many Americans are just now becoming re-acquainted with bolas.

Just earlier this month, the Richmond Police Department issued this press release:
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The Richmond Police Department has trained and equipped officers to use a new device that allows for brief control of non-compliant individuals.

The BolaWrap 150 Remote Restraint Device (pictured) is a handheld tool designed to be used as a method to control from a distance a non-compliant individual in instances when the officer would be justified in handcuffing the subject but doing so could escalate into a struggle which could cause harm to the subject or the officer.

The device deploys a Kevlar cord with weighted anchors designed to wrap around a subject’s body to temporarily limit their mobility and ability to cause harm to themselves or another. Officers will immediately apply handcuffs to the subject and remove the cord and anchors, when possible.

“This technology will allow for the safe control of a subject without a use of force,” said Chief Rick Edwards. “This reduces the likelihood that officers would need to escalate their response to higher levels of force to control a situation. It allows for safer outcomes for all.”

When practical, the officer will loudly announce “Bola, Bola, Bola” before deploying the device. The deployment produces a loud bang sound as the cord and anchors wrap around the subject – but is designed not to cause injury.

A video of Chief Edwards and Major Ronnie Armstead being wrapped by deployment of the device:

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It was unclear who was going to sponsor the event, although it seems likely that the City Parks & Rec Department and the Richmond Police Department would have been involved, and then perhaps VCU criminal justice program.

Word is that ‘Bola-Hoop’ may make an appearance at the Monument Avenue Easter Parade.

Although the ‘Bola-Hoop’ will not take place this Saturday, there is a mass protest march planned for Saturday at historic Monroe Park.