Queensland police cleared to use controversial 'sleeper' chokehold despite ban

Queensland police officers will be allowed to use a previously banned "sleeper" chokehold in a life-threatening situation, the police commissioner confirmed today.

The lateral vascular neck restraint (LVNR) was banned in April but Commissioner Katarina Carroll said officers had always been allowed to use the move if necessary.

Carroll said there had been confusion among officers about what they could and could not use during an arrest, and made a distinction between the legal use of an LVNR and the illegal use of a chokehold.

READ MORE: Fears death toll of NZ hostel fire could rise

"There has been no change in my decision for the use of LVNR," Carroll said.

"If a person's life is at risk an officer can use any force necessary to prevent grievous bodily harm or death.

"But in terms of training it as a use of force option, that has stopped."

The move was previously taught in tactical training as a way to restrain offenders, but it will not be taught following the ban.

The Queensland Police Union challenged the ban, claiming it put police officers at risk as it prevented them from defending themselves.

An LVNR restricts blood flow to the brain, whereas a chokehold restricts air to the lungs.

The commissioner also clarified a total ban of LVNRs would be illegal.

"The law has always recognised an officer might need to use extraordinary efforts to protect themselves," she said.

Sign up here to receive our daily newsletters and breaking news alerts, sent straight to your inbox.